### New ISO Standards for the Circular Economy: A Path Towards a Sustainable Future

The circular economy represents an innovative and systemic approach to resource management, contrasting with the traditional linear model based on “take, make, consume, and throw away.” With the aim of promoting more sustainable practices, new ISO standards have been developed that provide a common language and practical tools for organizations across all sectors. These standards are the result of intensive collaborative efforts by experts from over 100 countries and have been designed to facilitate the implementation of circular economy principles.

#### The ISO 59000 Standards Package

May 22 marked a significant day for the sustainability world with the release of the ISO 59000 series, which includes the first four standards: ISO 59004, ISO 59010, ISO 59020, and ISO 59032. Each of these plays a crucial role in promoting and supporting resource circularity. These standards not only aim to improve resource management but also to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals.

#### ISO 59004: Vocabulary and Fundamental Principles

Among the new ISO standards, ISO 59004:2024 is vital as it provides a common vocabulary for the circular economy. It defines basic principles and offers guidance for implementation. One of the key definitions that emerges from this standard is that of the circular economy, described as an “economic system that employs a systemic approach to maintain a circular flow of resources.” This concept implies a particular emphasis on waste reduction and optimal resource management, both in terms of stock and flows.

The six fundamental principles outlined in the standard include:

1. **Systemic thinking:** An approach that considers the interaction between the various parts of a system.
2. **Value creation:** Generation of economic, social, and environmental value.
3. **Value sharing:** Equitable distribution of benefits generated through circularity.
4. **Resource management:** Efficient and responsible use of available resources.
5. **Resource traceability:** Ability to follow the path of resources through the economic system.
6. **Ecosystem resilience:** Support for the capacity of ecosystems to adapt to and recover from disturbances.

These principles provide a solid foundation for organizations wishing to adopt a circular model, promising not only to reduce waste but also to regenerate ecosystems and biodiversity.

#### ISO 59010: Guidance for Transition

ISO 59010:2024 serves as a guideline for organizations intending to transition from a linear business model to a circular one. This standard offers a strategic framework for identifying areas for improvement and setting long-term goals. It highlights the importance of collaboration among different actors in the value chain, including suppliers, customers, and technology partners, to develop a more resilient and sustainable economic fabric.

In particular, the standard focuses on analyzing existing value models and provides guidelines for their mapping and improvement, highlighting how organizations can create value chains that benefit both the community and the environment.

#### ISO 59020: Measurement and Evaluation of Performance

To support organizations in monitoring their progress toward circularity, ISO 59020:2024 has been introduced. This standard defines methodologies and indicators for measuring circular performance, enabling organizations to report not only on the results achieved but also on the environmental and social impacts of their activities.

One of the crucial aspects of this standard is the uniformity of the data collection process, which allows for consistent and verifiable results. Through a structured approach, organizations can define the boundaries of their system and select…