Minister of State Alan Dillon has officially launched a six-week public consultation on Ireland’s Second Whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy, aimed at accelerating the country’s transition to a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. The announcement was made at the Environmental Protection Agency’s Circular Economy Conference on 24 September 2025.
The draft strategy outlines ambitious goals, including raising Ireland’s Circular Material Use Rate (CMUR) by at least two percentage points annually, decoupling economic growth from resource consumption, and embedding circularity into product design. It also seeks to empower citizens and businesses to adopt circular practices through targeted supports and awareness initiatives.
Key proposed actions include expanding reuse and repair schemes, promoting resource-efficient construction, introducing extended producer responsibility for textiles, and establishing a national centre of excellence and a network of circular economy hubs. The strategy builds on recent reforms such as the Deposit Return Scheme and improved access to brown bin services.
Minister Dillon described the circular economy as “an economic and social opportunity,” emphasizing its potential to reduce waste, protect resources, and stimulate innovation and job creation. He invited individuals, communities, and businesses to contribute ideas and feedback, stating, “This consultation is your chance to shape Ireland’s circular future.”
Submissions are open until 5 November 2025 via the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment’s official portal.
