Strategies and action plans for Scandinavian municipalities and their climate goals relating to circular economy

The building and construction sector is responsible for extracting half of the virgin materials produced, and one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. The public sector and municipalities account for a significant part of the building stock and can influence the building sector’s emission reductions and resource uses. This study aims to investigate strategies and action plans towards emission reductions related to circular economy initiatives in Scandinavian municipalities. Further, the study identifies effective practices and hindrances towards these circularity goals. The method of this study combines qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data was collected through analysis of existing climate strategies. The data was analyzed and sorted into categories, and further sorted with goals, tools and focus areas. The study reveals an increased focus and inclusion of circular economy principles and measures. Initiatives in strategies are mainly focused on waste management and recycling, rather than concrete measures for reuse. The study also showed that there is significant variation in the structure and content of different strategic documents. Recommendations for municipalities to improve the circular economic measures through action plans are provided. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure the implementation of circular goals in municipal strategies.