From transforming agricultural waste into sustainable textiles to revolutionising chemical recycling and financing models, the circular economy is gaining momentum – albeit not without hurdles. Across Europe and Southeast Asia, researchers, companies, and governments are rethinking waste, from plastics and steel to the participation of small businesses. As new studies highlight both progress and persistent gaps – in infrastructure, transparency, and public trust – the message is clear: the shift to circularity is underway, and those who act early stand to gain the most.