The circular economy offers a new model for how to sustain human well-being within planetary boundaries, with opportunities to improve competitiveness and economic resilience. It takes inspiration from the natural world, where materials cycle infinitely in one form or other in the ecosystem, and there is no such thing as ‘waste’. It looks to deliver deep business value by retaining these resources in the economy.

This report aims to kickstart a more holistic discussion on the full suite of public policies needed to support innovation for a circular economy in Canada. It explores these policies through insights from experience with clean innovation, and a review of the emerging global menu of circular economy policies. Based on this analysis, it highlights gaps that need to be addressed and makes the case for building a robust innovation ecosystem to support the circular economy transition.