The development of a circular economy is key to the European Commission’s goal of making Europe climate neutral by 2050.

Its implementation would have an effect on working conditions and occupational safety and health and challenges for OSH may vary in the coming years.

A sustainable future, based on the minimisation of waste streams and their use as resources, has implications for the waste sector, among others, and regulation, standardisation and documentation are essential to reduce OSH risks.

For an effective transition to a circular economy, digital technologies are essential and present opportunities and challenges, which are examined in a policy brief focusing on information provision and sharing, work flexibility, deskilling, and risks related to worker surveillance and monitoring.

Read EU-OSHA’s foresight overview and next steps on the circular economy and safety and health.