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Knowledge4Policy
Knowledge for policy
Supporting policy with scientific evidence

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  • Publication | 2018
Behavioural study on consumers’ engagement in the circular economy

This study provides policy-relevant insights for the EU circular economy action plan. It identifies barriers faced by consumers when deciding whether to engage in the circular economy, factors that influence this decision. Finally, it provides policy tools to encourage consumers to engage in circular economy practices related to durability and reparability

Behavioural insights

This study provides policy-relevant insights for the EU circular economy action plan. The study aims to:

  • Identify barriers and trade-offs faced by consumers when deciding whether to engage in the circular economy. In particular, whether to buy a more or a less durable good, and whether to have a good repaired or to discard it and buy a replacement.
  • Establish the relative importance of economic, social and psychological factors that govern how consumers engage in the circular economy.
  • Propose policy tools to enable and encourage consumers to engage in circular economy practices related to durability and reparability.

The study focusses on 5 products: vacuum cleaners, televisions, dishwashers, smartphones and clothes.