Circular cities: Edoardo Croci discusses the urban circular economy in the fifth episode of Città in Transizione

The fifth and final episode of Città in transizione, the special podcast series produced by Will Media in collaboration with the Sustainability and Resilience (SUR) Lab at Bocconi University, is now available online.

Developed within the framework of the MUSA – Multilayered Urban Sustainability Action project (Spoke 1 – Urban Regeneration), the series explores how Italian and European cities are addressing the challenges of climate change through innovative policies and practices aimed at reducing emissions and improving urban sustainability.

The concluding episode focuses on the circular economy as a driver of urban transformation. Hosted by Paolo Bovio, the discussion features Edoardo Croci, Director of SUR Lab, and Oriana Romano, Head of the Water Governance, Blue Economy and Circular Economy Unit at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The episode examines how circularity represents a fundamental shift from the traditional linear model of extract–produce–consume–dispose towards systems in which resources remain in use for as long as possible, and waste becomes a valuable input for new production cycles. The discussion explores what this paradigm means in the urban context and how cities can integrate circular economy principles into planning, infrastructure, resource management and public policy.

Drawing on international experiences and policy perspectives, the speakers discuss the role of circular urban systems in improving resource efficiency, reducing environmental impacts and supporting climate neutrality. The conversation also highlights the importance of governance, innovation and collaboration among public institutions, businesses and local communities in enabling the transition towards more sustainable and resilient cities.

Watch the full episode on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHTDADkFdbE