The participatory process to the National Circular Economy Strategy

The development of the NCES by the BMUV was accompanied by a research project of the Federal Environment Agency and extensive stakeholder participation. 

The participatory process included all organised interest groups relevant for the implementation of a circular economy in Germany ensuring a balanced integration of diverse perspectives. Stakeholders from the business sector, associations, civil society organizations, trade unions, consumer protection groups, environmental and nature conservation organizations as well as institutions from education and research participated in various dialogue formats. The Länder were involved through the stakeholders chairing the relevant bodies of the Umweltministerkonferenz (UMK).

From April to December 2023, the participation formats focused on discussion, mutual learning and the exchange of ideas on proposed measures and instruments for the NCES: 19 round tables and two workshops on the topic of digitalization focused on specific action areas. Three dialogue workshops and two dialogue forums also provided space to discuss overarching issues in the context of the NCES. The international perspective was also incorporated – an international dialogue workshop focused on shaping the circular economy across national borders.

In addition, an online dialogue in the first half of 2023 provided all stakeholders involved in the round tables with an additional opportunity to submit ideas, comments, and opinions on the NCES that could not be considered during the in-person formats. In the first half of November 2023, organizations, associations, and federal states were able to comment on the proposed objectives and measures developed to date and contribute new ideas as part of a public online consultation process. More than 80 organizations and associations participated, submitting nearly 1,500 comments. The Länder also had the opportunity to provide written comments as part of the online consultation. In summer 2024, stakeholders from business, society, and science were also able to submit written statements on the published draft of the NCES.

In total, over 300 participants contributed more than 130 hours across all participation formats. This significant and by no means self-evident commitment from all stakeholders has made a crucial contribution to shaping the NCES.

Background documents and other process-relevant materials are available in the media center.