In the unparalleled response to the COVID-19 pandemic, trillions of dollars in economic stimulus have been made available around the world while the calls for a recovery that is in alignment with other global challenges, have never been louder. Many see beyond the pandemic a rare opportunity to build a resilient and low-carbon economic recovery. 

The circular economy, as an instrument to decouple economic growth from resource use and environmental impact, opens up the way for a resilient recovery. It not only addresses the negative impacts of the linear economy, but more importantly it represents a systemic shift that builds long-term resilience, generates business and economic opportunities, and provides environmental and societal benefits.

Building on the past ten years of research carried out on the circular economy, this paper highlights how policymakers can help pave the way towards a resilient recovery. As part of this, ten attractive circular investment opportunities across five key sectors of the built environment, mobility, plastic packaging, fashion, and food have been identified. Together, they optimise the use and circulation of assets, materials, and nutrients while offering economic, environmental, and societal benefits that can help address both short- and long-term goals of the public and private sectors. In embracing these opportunities, policymakers can enable the transition to the future economy we need; one that is more prosperous and inclusive, achieving the multiple public policy objectives of the 21st century while mitigating the risk of future crises.