Net Zero: investigating the role of sitebased regulation in developing a circular economy

Summary

This UK Environment Agency research report, published in September 2025, examines the role of site-based environmental regulations in fostering a circular economy across ten major industries as part of the Net Zero agenda. Through 24 case studies and industry engagement, the study found that existing regulations often had a neutral impact on circular economy adoption, with key barriers being permit complexities, feedstock challenges, and insufficient financial incentives. The report suggests a need for a value chain perspective to fully capture the benefits of circularity.

Key Facts

Source Document

https://example-government.gov/policy-document-link