Less market than hoped for

It is not only since the EU Circular Economy Action Plan that it has been clear that secondary raw materials play an essential role in the circular economy. Not only do they provide high-quality materials, but they also generate significant sales. There are markets for different material flows. However, these differ significantly from each other in some cases. And while some markets have been established for some time, others are hindered in their development by a wide variety of obstacles - despite sometimes strict regulations at European and national level. The European Environment Agency has analysed the markets for eight secondary raw materials and makes suggestions on how to improve market development.