La economía circular y su dimensión regional en la Unión Europea: El caso de Euskadi como ejemplo avanzado de circularidad

For more than two decades, the European Union (EU) has been promoting the circular economy as a key axis of its transition toward a more sustainable economic and social model. This article analyzes the role that European cities and regions are playing in this transformation process, focusing on the Basque Country as an outstanding example of circularity. The study first analyses the regulatory and strategic framework promoted by the EU to boost the circular economy at the urban and regional levels, identifying also the challenges faced by local and regional authorities in its implementation. The experience of the Basque Country is then explored, highlighting its Circular Economy Strategy 2030, public-private collaboration initiatives and progress achieved. It is argued that the comprehensive approach, together with public-private interaction, positions the Basque Country as a benchmark region in circular economy, although significant challenges related to financing, capacity building and inter-institutional coordination are also observed, which will need to be addressed to consolidate the path towards a more sustainable territory.