Circular Economy in Spain: A Strategic Driver for Social Inclusion and Employment

Spain embraces the circular economy as a catalyst for social inclusion and job creation, promoting sustainability alongside equity and innovation.

    Key details

  • • The circular economy is vital for climate action and social justice in Spain.
  • • New jobs are created in sectors like repair, waste management, and regenerative agriculture.
  • • Vulnerable groups gain employment opportunities through circular economy initiatives.
  • • Collaboration across sectors is essential for sustainable and inclusive job creation.

The circular economy is increasingly recognized in Spain as a strategic tool not only for addressing climate change but also for promoting social inclusion and justice. According to Nuria Garrido Dorado, transitioning to a circular economic model requires a thorough overhaul of production, consumption, and waste management processes, supported by advanced recycling technologies and eco-design practices. This shift generates new job opportunities in roles such as repair technicians, waste managers, and regenerative agriculture specialists, offering employment avenues especially for vulnerable groups including people with disabilities, long-term unemployed individuals, migrants, and victims of gender violence. The Fundación para la Economía Circular stresses the importance of integrating social justice alongside environmental goals, proposing collaboration among businesses, social entities, and public administrations to create sustainable and equitable jobs. This approach not only reduces ecological footprints but enhances human and technical capacities, contributing to dignity and self-esteem for marginalized populations. Such efforts demonstrate that the circular economy is not just an ecological strategy but also an economic, technical, and moral imperative to foster innovation, social justice, and inclusive development in Spain.

This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.