This book explores the concept of a circular economy (CE) and its transformative potential for cities and regions. It emphasises the importance of spatial planning and the role of urban and regional authorities in driving the transition to a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive economic and societal model. As such, the book aims to inform and equip public and private policymakers, urban planners and regional authorities with the knowledge and tools needed to foster a CE, and nudge cities and regions towards sustainable futures.

Urbanised regions face mounting challenges related to environmental degradation, resource scarcity, social inequality and economic instability. Instead of “take–make–waste”, CE aims to reduce waste, reuse resources and regenerate natural systems, while fostering resilience and inclusivity. This book offers a fresh perspective on CE by stressing its spatial dimensions and the critical role of cities and regions as pivotal actors in the transition to a circular future. At the same time, it offers a critical perspective on this topic and stresses that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to regional and urban CE policies. Instead, it advocates a context-specific understanding of CE, emphasising the importance of local and regional conditions for circular activities, of the spatial patterns in resource stocks and flows within territories, and of the need to engage a range of stakeholders and communities in decision-making processes.