The Resource‐Energy Nexus as a Key Factor for Circular Economy

The extraction of raw materials is associated with energy input and CO2 emissions. What is obvious for extraction from mining, however, also applies to recycling. Mostly, recycling is preferred for reasons of climate protection or because of the geological scarcity of raw materials, which is controversially discussed. While in mining, the declining ore grade is a driver for the energy demand, in case of recycling it is the dissipation of materials into products or waste. As concentration decreases, the effort required also increases disproportionately. The “closing the loop” metaphor of Circular Economy is therefore inappropriate in its stricter meaning. It is rather about optimizing the overall system and finding the optimal recycling rate. However, first, it must be clarified what the political goals for Circular Economy are. Are we really running out of raw materials? Is that why we need to recycle materials and “close the loop”? This article provides an overview of the complex discussion. It emphasizes the importance of energy and material concentrations and argues for tying Circular Economy more closely to climate protection goals.