An inclusive consultation process is also required during the formulation, implementation and monitoring of product policy frameworks in order to foster interministerial cooperation, synergies among policies, public-private partnerships (including with financial and research institutions) and broader acceptability.
The uptake of product policy packages also requires a robust governance process, including a clear transition plan, measurable progress indicators and agile decision processes. A balance between regulatory, voluntary and information-based policy instruments can support a profound, sustainable transformation. The framework should be regularly reviewed to adjust policy responses to the progress made, and changes in international regulations and technology. Recognizing the importance and role of the informal sector in advancing product policy efforts is also critical.
Most current policy efforts focus on providing downstream regulation. Greater coherence between waste policies, cleaner production policies and life-cycle-based approaches allows a transition towards a development model that not strives to minimize waste but also incorporates upstream and midstream solutions to increase impact. Considering the global nature of supply chains, product policies need to promote a value chain or sectoral approach. Policies related to material efficiency and chemicals and waste can have a positive impact on product design and reduce pollution at all stages of the value chain if they are developed and implemented in a coordinated manner.
Uptake of methodologies for the life-cycle assessment of products and access to open life-cycle data, including regional and country-specific data, are pivotal for policymakers and businesses, including SMEs, to create enabling product policy frameworks and guide the design of products and services that minimize harmful environmental impacts.
Transforming societies by raising “sustainability awareness” and emphasizing the critical role of consumption decisions is fundamental to profoundly changing consumption and production patterns. Empowering citizens through enhanced consumer information about environmental footprints allows them to take informed decisions. As consumer awareness of the issue of sustainability increases, businesses have more leeway to offer sustainable alternatives and build a relationship of trust with consumers, which in turn facilitates access to finance (e.g., through crowdfunding). Direct and trustful relationships with customers can also facilitate the uptake of innovative business models such as product-service systems and sharing platforms.
You can find on this page on to scale up circularity through policy packages and design of products and services. Global and regional trends will be illustrate how a value chain approach is key to respond to key recommendations.
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