Spain Advances Circular Economy with Strategic Industry and Regulatory Efforts

Spain is intensifying its efforts to advance the circular economy through strategic industry collaboration, innovation, and upcoming regulatory frameworks. The eighth General Council of the Industrial Competitiveness Table of Rubí (TCIR) underscored circular economy as indispensable for business competitiveness and sustainability. At the meeting held in Masía de Can Serra, key speakers, including Rubí's Mayor Ana María Martínez and Catalonia’s Minister of Business and Labor, Miquel Sàmper i Rodríguez, emphasized how circularity, technology, and collaboration are interlinked for driving a more efficient, innovative, and competitive economic model. The event aligned with the National Pact for Industry 2026-2030, seeking green and digital reindustrialization.

Rubí’s commitment is concretely demonstrated by over €3 million invested in 2024 to improve economic activity zones and support more than 50 companies with training and advisory services. Additionally, 47 companies benefited from the Energy Aggregation Purchase Group, lowering costs and facilitating their transition to sustainable energy. The municipality has also provided job orientation to over 1,200 people, with 95 entering employment, and is advocating for the creation of a new vocational training center tailored to industry demands.

Parallel to local initiatives, the Spanish Association of Paper and Cardboard Recyclers (Repacar) hosted the 16th National Congress of Paper Recycling with 250 professionals, focusing on the sector's pivotal role in circular economy transition. Experts discussed the crucial roles of innovation, financing, and regulation in enhancing recycling competitiveness. Significant attention was given to the anticipated approval of a new circular economy law expected by the end of next year, which aims to harmonize policy implementation and improve separate collection systems.

Challenges remain, such as the need for greater producer engagement and regulatory alignment with industry needs. Nonetheless, sector leaders expressed optimism about forthcoming improvements from the Packaging and Waste Regulation (PPWR). Repacar’s general director, Gloria Lázaro, highlighted the sector’s adaptability and innovation, stressing that a supportive regulatory environment will be key to sustaining progress.

These combined efforts from local government, industry stakeholders, and regulators reflect Spain's strategic approach to embedding circular economy principles within its industrial landscape, promoting sustainability and competitiveness as the country prepares for new legislative changes.