Action plan for the transition to the circular economy 2020-2027.

The circular economy is defined as a development model that promotes sustainability, the essence of which is the value of products, materials and resources. Action plan for the transition to the circular economy 2020-2027 is a medium-term policy planning document prepared by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development of Latvia. Its primary focus is to facilitate the transition to a circular economy within the country, aligning with the European Green Deal and global sustainable development goals. The scope of circular economy is reducing both the consumption of raw materials and the amount of waste, as well as the impact on the environment.
The goal of the Plan is to provide a policy framework for ensuring an operating environment that would promote the country's transition to a circular economy, while contributing to the implementation of the European Green Deal and the achievement of global sustainable development goals. The Plan promotes responsible resource planning, use, and more sustainable production and consumption, integrating these fundamental considerations into all sectoral policies, in relation to priority life cycle stages and resource flows.
The Plan sets out the main directions of action and measures for the implementation of the circular economy: (a) transition from waste management to resource management; (b) improving resource productivity in all sectors of the economy by promoting the development of research and innovation; (c) creating prerequisites for the reuse of goods; (d) promoting the transition from purchasing goods to services; (e) improving materials, processes and waste management in priority sectors; (f) strengthening the role of local governments in implementing circular economy principles; and (g) public participation, information and education.
The Plan also highlights the importance of integrating circular economy principles into all policy areas, fostering innovation, and creating new economic opportunities while addressing challenges identified in public discussions and recommendations from international bodies. It advocates for the reduction of food waste, the promotion of bioresources, and the use of biodegradable materials.