This episode of The IR thinker explores the circular economy as a subject of international politics, examining how it is defined, what goals it pursues and how it fits within global economic and trade frameworks. In conversation with Dr Patrick Schröder, we discuss international standards, bilateral agreements, corporate incentives, implementation failures, links to the energy transition and the geopolitical and ethical implications of circular economy initiatives, including in the Global South.

Patrick Schröder

Dr Patrick Schröder is a Senior Research Fellow in the Environment and Society Centre at Chatham House in London. His work focuses on the global transition to an inclusive circular economy, with particular emphasis on international policy coordination, investment needs, the role of trade and the contribution of circular practices to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Publications:

The Relevance of Circular Economy Practices to the Sustainable Development Goals

Promoting a just transition to an inclusive circular economy

No, Recycling Won’t Solve Our Plastic Problem

Content

00:00 - Introduction

02:03 - Defining Circular Economy

07:38 - Main Goals of Circular Economy

10:48 - Circular Economy in International Economic Frameworks

16:33 - Global Authority and International Standards for Circular Economy

23:20 - Incorporating Circular Economy into Bilateral Agreements

29:11 - International Consensus on Circular Economy

35:50 - Multinational Corporations and Circular Economy Incentives

41:36 - Case Studies: Failures in Circular Economy Implementation

43:58 - Impact of Circular Economy on Economic Growth

48:50 - Geopolitical Implications of Circular Economy

52:46 - Western Circular Economy Initiatives in Developing Countries

56:04 - Ethical Issues in Circular Economy

59:14 - Circular Economy and Energy Transition

01:04:39 - Recommended Research Areas in Circular Economy

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