9 July 2026 - CLG Europe brought together policymakers and business leaders at the European Parliament in Strasbourg for a breakfast briefing on the priorities needed to accelerate Europe’s transition towards a more circular economy and support an ambitious Circular Economy Act.
Hosted by MEP Sara Matthieu, with the support of VELUX and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the discussion brought together Members of the European Parliament and senior business representatives to explore how Europe can strengthen circularity across sectors while supporting competitiveness, resilience and security of supply.
A key focus was the need to develop stronger and more effective markets for secondary materials across the Single Market. Participants discussed the challenges created by market fragmentation and the importance of creating the conditions for secondary materials to compete effectively and move more easily across Europe.
The discussion also explored the need for greater harmonisation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, labelling and standards, alongside clearer and more consistent frameworks that can support businesses in scaling circular solutions.
Drawing on perspectives from sectors including textiles, aluminium, steel and building materials, participants highlighted both the urgency and the economic opportunity of accelerating circularity. More efficient use and reuse of materials can help reduce pressure on natural resources and strengthen Europe’s resilience to supply-chain and resource dependencies.
The exchange highlighted the importance of continued dialogue between policymakers and businesses as work on the Circular Economy Act progresses. CLG Europe contributed business perspectives on how a strong policy framework can help circular business models scale while supporting Europe’s wider competitiveness, resilience and sustainability objectives.