CircularPSP

Most cities do not have the capacity to transition to a circular economy (CE) and remain in a linear mindset, although the number of solutions is growing by the day. However, the solutions cover many areas, are scattered and often not available in the local language. Even if municipal employees can identify a case study, the steps to be taken remain unclear. They would not be able to select the right indicator from thousands. They would struggle to find or trigger a suitable local company. They would have to take personal risks to disrupt the existing system. The CE-solution is a platform that integrates a specialised AI collecting all case studies and applying relevant taxonomies to make them searchable in local context and language. On the platform, cities can create and track their circular missions for the coming years. Staff can follow a step-by-step guide to implement a circular case study. If they need new skills or knowledge, it will be suggested based on their experience. They can connect with the case study leader and communicate without friction. They can inform local SMEs about the shift in demand, who can also access upskilling tools for the transition. CircularPSP is a competitive pre-commercial procurement and the first of its kind. Cities of all sizes will be empowered to start their CE transition at low cost and risk, in contrast to the current situation where only a few large cities can afford the staff or consultancy to do so. The solution removes friction in knowledge sharing, networking within and between cities, training and tracking the impact of circularity. By providing evidence of initially simple actions, it provides evidence to overcome the prevailing prejudices against and lack of awareness of the benefits of R-strategies. The procurers represent Europe including capitals with global influence (Berlin, Helsinki, London and Istanbul). Followers will be able to publicly test the solution in autumn/winter 2025.