On 21st October, Scottish Government announced a ‘Circular Economy Strategy consultation,’ in which it seeks input on its draft plan to increase reuse and recycling whilst growing the economy. The consultation includes proposals aimed at creating new jobs and driving economic growth by keeping materials and goods in use for as long as possible.

The draft Circular Economy Strategy sets out plans to increasing reuse, repair and recycling rates, for example by:

• increasing the reuse of construction materials
• supporting sustainable alternatives to fast-fashion
• increasing EV battery re-purposing, recycling and material reprocessing
• exploring ways to cut food waste

The draft Strategy will develop sector specific road-maps for four of the five sectors with the greatest potential for increasing reuse, repair and recycling rates in Scotland – the built environment, net zero energy infrastructure, textiles and food. Actions for the fifth sector, transport, will be included in the forthcoming draft Climate Change Plan.

You can view the full consultation here. The closing date for responses is 13th January 2026. Please share any comments with [email protected] by 5th January 2026.