Circular economy—A treasure trove of opportunities for enhancing resource efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Economic progress triggers natural resources extraction and emissions of hazardous waste consequently increasing environmental and human health risks in many parts of the world since linear economy approaches are at the core of the present production systems. In this study, we review alternative circular economy (CE) strategies and argue for their relevance as effective options to improve resource (material) use efficiency and meet human needs with less consumptive goods and services. Digitalization further enhances the enabling environment for adopting CE strategies such as circular resource uses and extension of useful lifetime of goods and services. Resource efficiency enhancement, greenhouse gas reduction, and utility improvement effects of different CE strategies are examined for various economic sectors including agriculture, textile, manufacturing, transport, construction, services (e.g., hotels and catering), and municipal solid waste (MSW) management.