Why Scotland's Circular Economy Needs a Future Generations Commissioner

By Iain Gulland , Chief Executive, Zero Waste Scotland

Scotland stands at an important juncture, as the government considers the Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill - a pivotal piece of legislation which aims to ensure that all policy and delivery accounts for the wellbeing of both current and future generations. Following in the footsteps of the pioneering Welsh Wellbeing of Future Generations Act (2015), the bill contains a proposal for a Future Generations Commissioner, whose role would be to advocate for the interests of future people in Scotland. ?

The need for this legislation becomes strikingly clear when we consider the looming climate and biodiversity crises. With the twelve-month global average temperature surpassing 1.5 degrees, for the first time, and six of the nine planetary boundaries already breached, the scale of ecological breakdown is ever present. Extreme weather events and potential disruptions to vital networks (like food supply chains and energy security) underscore the need for urgent action to safeguard the wellbeing of both present and future generations.

Enter the circular economy - a genuine model for sustainable development. One that can deliver good lives for all within the Planet’s limits. By adopting circular practices that minimise waste, regenerate natural systems, and maximise resource value, we can reduce the material footprint of our economy and address the root causes of the climate and nature emergency. Beyond environmental benefits, embracing circularity presents many socio-economic opportunities; from fostering new businesses and creating fair and meaningful employment, to enhancing supply chain resilience and bolstering economic activity. ?

A Future Generations Commissioner could play a pivotal role in delivering this sustainable future. Here's why: ?

Providing a long-term perspective: Transitioning to a circular economy isn't a quick fix; it's a transformative journey that demands foresight and persistence. By advocating for policies that account for the needs of future generations, a Future Generations Commissioner can ensure the severity of the ecological crisis remains at the forefront of decision-making and promote the right policies which would allow the circular economy to thrive and endure.

Tackling intergenerational inequality: In Scotland and beyond, communities are grappling with persistent inequalities and lack of opportunity. A just transition to a circular economy requires us to address these inequalities head-on, spreading the benefits of sustainable development equitably. Here, a Future Generations Commissioner would play a complementary role - ensuring that intergenerational justice remains a cornerstone of the transition.

Getting the governance right: Transitioning to a circular economy requires nothing short of systemic change across all sectors of the economy. But a paradigm shift in mindset and approach is required; from citizens, to businesses and government. To oversee this complex transition a holistic, independent, and forward-thinking approach to governance is needed, which could be suitable for the office of a Future Generations Commissioner. ?

As Scotland continues its ambitious journey toward a circular economy, the case for a Future Generations Commissioner is clear. It's time to embrace the power of foresight and lay the groundwork for a sustainable future for all. ?

Read more about the economic, environmental and social value of the circular economy here

Provide your views on how to drive the transition to a circular economy here .