The event brought together a motivated community of visionaries and practitioners and proved to be a transformative gathering focused on advancing the circular economy. The main themes and key takeaways from the conference, as highlighted by Ramona Liberoff, Executive Director of the Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE), are as follows: 

Broadened Focus: Beyond Packaging and Plastic 

Circularity 23 exhibited a positive shift in attention beyond the traditional focus on packaging and plastic. The conference explored core areas such as critical minerals and target setting, aligning with PACE's primary points of focus. This expanded perspective allows for a more comprehensive approach to the circular economy, addressing diverse sectors and materials considering systemic, production-level interventions.  

Target Setting Round Table: Supply Chain Alignment 

PACE facilitated a round table discussion on target setting, showcasing how companies are utilizing target-setting guidance to foster alignment within their supply chains and internal operations. This collaborative effort supports the adoption of ambitious and measurable circular targets, enabling effective progress toward a circular economy. 

Investment Panel: Hardware and Infrastructure Funding 

An investment panel featuring Closed Loop Partners, Metabolic, and Regeneration VC highlighted exciting opportunities in hardware and infrastructure funding. The discussion showcased successful partnerships between corporations and the public sector, emphasizing the potential for innovative financing models. However, it also emphasized the existing scale and capital gap, underscoring the need for increased investment to drive circular initiatives. 

Practical Sessions: Sharing Experiences and Insights 

Numerous sessions during the conference provided practical experiences and insights in various areas. Topics covered included electronics collection, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, equity and justice considerations, and more. These sessions offered tangible knowledge and real-world examples, fostering a deeper understanding of the practical aspects of implementing circular strategies. 

Circularity 23 successfully brought together 1,400 change-makers, creating a dynamic platform for learning, collaboration, and progress toward a more circular economy. By expanding the focus, aligning supply chains through target setting, exploring investment opportunities, and sharing practical experiences, the conference demonstrated a collective commitment to transformative action.