United Kingdom: Resources Minister Robbie Moore has announced that the UK will set up the world’s first United Nations (UN) backed International Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Resource Management in the Circular Economy.
Acknowledging the UK’s world-class educational expertise and advanced scientific research, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) pledged to support the establishment of a centre in the country.
A circular economy aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible, rather than disposing of them in a landfill after a single use. The UK will support countries worldwide in maximising the economic and environmental benefits of circular economy practices.
The centre is set to open in April 2024 and aims to bring together five institutions, including University College London, University of Exeter, Brunel University London, Swansea University, and the British Geological Survey.
Coordinated by the Geneva-based UNECE Research Manager and funded by the government, the alliance aims to explore circularity in sectors such as metals, manufacturing and critical minerals. It aims to develop effective data, technological innovation, economic models and policies. The five participating institutions will jointly contribute £1.85 million to the centre’s technical work.
Robbie Moore stated that, “This is real recognition of the UK’s global leadership in sustainable resource management and testament to Britain’s world-leading academic expertise. We are delighted to host this centre, enabling our cutting-edge UK academics to develop the tools and research that will help countries across the world seize the opportunities of the circular economy, leading the way in the transition to a greener future.”
Tatiana Molcean, UNECE Executive Secretary said that, “Making the use of our resources more sustainable and moving towards a circular economy is fundamental to sustainable development and climate action. Partnerships mobilising international expertise play an important role in UN cooperation to develop and share best practices. I welcome the establishment of this new Centre of Excellence, with its focus on circularity of metals, construction and critical raw materials.”
The Center builds on the achievements of several partner organizations in the National Interdisciplinary Circular Economy Research (NICER) Programme, a four-year £30 million investment launched by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Launched under the UK Government’s Strategic Priorities Fund, the program appointed a Chief Scientist in 2019. The UK Government announced plans last summer to use fewer new resources, increase repair and reuse of existing materials, and boost recycling rates.
To keep products and materials in circulation for as long as possible, the “Maximising Resources, Minimising Waste” scheme promotes reuse, repair and remanufacturing. It increases employment, reduces waste and grows the economy. The latest announcement will help take the program forward, contributing to the UK’s world-leading efforts to protect the environment and improve resource use.
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