France: First Standard on Circular Economy Project Management

In cooperation with around fifty actors, the French Agency for Standardisation, AFNOR, developed the first technical standard on Circular Economy project management system – Requirements and Guidelines, XP X30-901.

The voluntary standard XP X30-901 involves a 3 x 7 matrix covering the three dimensions of sustainable development – environment, economy, society – and the seven fields of action of the circular economy: sustainable procurement, eco-design, industrial symbiosis, economy of functionality, responsible consumption, extension of service life, effective management of materials or products at the end of their life.

The standard may also inspire labeling, certification, or any other sign indicating that an organization applies it in all respects. It is intended to become an international standard. The ISO countries have approved the creation of a technical committee on the subject (ISO TC 323) to bring together professionals wishing to develop the international standard.