ERCE Submits Response to Consultation on the Framework Act on the Circular Economy

The proposed Framework Act represents an important step in strengthening the legal foundation for circular economy policy by embedding circular economy principles more firmly within the Environmental Management Act. ERCE welcomes the ambition to create a clearer legislative basis and to bring Dutch policy frameworks further in line with national and European circular economy objectives.

ERCE is a data-driven research initiative of Maastricht University dedicated to accelerating the transition towards a sustainable and circular economy in the Limburg region. By combining scientific knowledge, data analysis, and collaboration with regional stakeholders, ERCE works to develop insights and solutions that support businesses, governments, and communities in making the transition towards circular practices.

In its response, ERCE highlights that the proposed Framework Act provides an important institutional foundation for future circular economy policy. However, the centre also stresses that additional clarification, practical guidance, and implementation support will be essential to ensure that the ambitions of the National Circular Economy Programme (NPCE) can be effectively translated into action.

Clear pathways, practical instruments, and accessible guidance will be needed to help organisations across sectors understand their role and take meaningful steps towards circularity. A key point in ERCE’s response concerns the importance of supporting practitioners who will work with the new legislative framework. Businesses, municipalities, community initiatives, and other organisations often face challenges when navigating complex regulatory requirements. Providing clear explanatory materials, practical tools, and sector-specific guidance can help make the legislation more accessible and workable, particularly for organisations with limited legal or administrative capacity.

ERCE also emphasises the importance of involving regional and societal stakeholders in the implementation of circular economy policy. The transition towards a circular economy requires cooperation across value chains and between different levels of governance. Regions play a crucial role in connecting national ambitions with local opportunities, innovation, and practical solutions.

Through its contribution to the consultation, ERCE aims to support a legislative framework that is not only ambitious, but also inclusive, implementable, and capable of creating measurable impact. By combining policy development with regional knowledge and data-driven insights, ERCE continues to contribute to building the foundations for a circular economy that works across sectors and regions.

The full ERCE response has been submitted through the Ministry's public consultation process and can be viewed on the Ministry portal.