How can we reduce consumption and extend the lifespan of the things we own?

NHH Researcher on the Panel

The public expert group on circular economy proposes a number of concrete measures. Economic incentives, new taxes, and extended producer responsibility are central themes.

The "Expert Group for the Assessment of Policy Instruments to Promote Circular Activities" delivered its report today to Minister of Climate and Environment Andreas Bjelland Eriksen.

`We consume far more than our planet can sustain. We must move away from a throwaway economy and toward one where we repair, reuse, and share resources,´ said Minister Bjelland Eriksen in a press release.

`To do this, we need new policy tools that make it profitable to take care of what we already have.´

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Circular Economy

The government appointed the expert group in March 2024. Jarle Møen, Head of Department and Professor at the Department of Business and Management Science at NHH, was a member of the group.

This initiative, which aimed to provide a comprehensive review of policy instruments to promote circular activities, has been referenced in several earlier processes, including the Hurdal Platform (Labour Party and Centre Party) from 2021, the Tax Committee (NOU 2022:20), the 2050 Climate Committee (NOU 2023:25), and the Nature Risk Committee (NOU 2024:2), led by NHH researcher Aksel Mjøs.

The new expert group was tasked with proposing ways to improve resource efficiency and to recommend possible changes to existing policy instruments. The group was also asked to consider reforms in the tax and fee system, specifically including a textile tax.

Not a Straight Path (Ikke rett fram)

79 Recommendations

The aim of a circular economy is to recognize the value of what we already have. By reusing, recycling, and repairing both large and small products, we reduce waste and ensure our resources gain new and longer lives.

The expert group presents a total of 79 recommendations across seven value chains in Norway. Here are some of the key proposals:

• Align with the EU: The EU leads the way in developing regulations that promote circular solutions. Norway should incorporate relevant EU regulations into the EEA Agreement as quickly as possible.
• Plastic packaging fee: Designed to stimulate recycling and reduce plastic use. The fee should vary based on the share of recycled plastic used in packaging.
• Repair initiative for electronics: Support for repairs should be given as direct subsidies rather than VAT exemptions, which are less effective.
• Textile tax: Based on weight and number of units, aimed at reducing consumption of new textiles in Norway. Lower demand for new clothing means lower emissions and waste from the industry.
• Extended producer responsibility: A waste prevention measure where producers are responsible not just for making and selling products, but also for what happens after they are discarded.

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On Friday 6 June 2025 Trang Quynh Vu will hold a trial lecture on a prescribed topic and defend her thesis for the PhD degree at NHH.

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