THE GOALS OF WASTE FRAMEWORK DIRECTIVE AS MECHANISM SECURING TRANSITION TO CIRCULAR ECONOMY.

Circular economy is seen as economy’s development direction expected to lead to a more sustainable development and a harmonious society. It covers at least five different business models, one of which is resource recovery, tackling benefits of industrial symbiosis. In order to achieve a circular economy, there must be a greater understanding of the links between economic activity and waste generation. A consensus exists on the vital role of waste and resource management in achieving transition from a linear model to a circular one where the value of materials and resources are maintained in the supply chain. Waste systematically emerges throughout the supply chain as a result of economic activities and trade. Systemic and transformative change is also reflected in the growing number of case studies analysing innovative solutions based on new systemic thinking like "cradle to cradle" and “industrial symbiosis”. The aim of the research is to analyse existing Circular economy strategies in the European Union, in order to identify main priority areas and objectives. The Authors have also assessed that the three Baltic States currently have not developed circular economy strategies, but nevertheless the authors were able to gather and analyse a range of examples of circular economy companies. In order to achieve this, following methodology has been applied by the authors: critical analysis, case studies, synthesis and comparative analysis. As a result of the research, the authors identify best practices, impact of the municipalities, allowing to identify further necessary steps for the transition to circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]