Stylized Facts for the Circular Economy - A Knowledge Synthesis

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Abstract
We present a first iteration of stylized facts for the circular economy (CE) as a way to synthesize the knowledge compiled into interesting, relevant, and empirically grounded general statements. This compilation is the result of a collaborative review, synthesis, and stylization effort on CE knowledge. It makes the existing CE literature digestible to a variety of audiences while also highlighting strengths and weaknesses of research and implementation to-date. Each stylized fact is self-contained, using the established technical language of the field. It is accompanied by a statement of evidence, which links to the relevant literature compiled by the authors of the individual facts and multiple internal reviewers from the author team. The stylized facts presented here explore five critical dimensions of the CE: 1. Stock-flow-service nexus and stock growth; 2. Material cycles and R strategies; 3. Global supply chains and environmental impacts; 4. Economic and social challenges and opportunities, including CE business models; and 5. Policy and regulation. We group all facts into these five categories. Neither the list of topics nor the list of facts is exhaustive.The facts and arguments presented here can serve as the synthesized empirical foundation that can be translated into different forms of science communication, such as teaching material, video lectures, animations, infographics, policy briefings, and more. Such materials could be used across scientific communities, practitioners, and the wider public. By presenting a concise, system-wide perspective, the stylized facts aim to improve understanding of what the CE is, what it can deliver, and where its fundamental limits lie, thereby supporting more informed decision-making and dialogue across research, policy and practice communities.