Circular Economy Performance in the European Union: An Assessment with Different Multi-Criteria Decision Making Methods

Abstract

This study aims to comparatively assess the circular economy (CE) performance of 27 European Union (EU) member states using data from 2000 to 2023. The CE is considered a critical strategy for optimizing resource use, reducing waste, reintegrating secondary raw materials into production processes and supporting sustainable growth. The study used the CE indicators published by Eurostat, and analyses were conducted under three dimensions: (i) production and consumption, (ii) waste and secondary raw material production and (iii) competitiveness, innovation, global sustainability and resilience. Countries’ performance was assessed using multi-criteria decision-making methods such as CoCoSo, MABAC and MAIRCA. The results were converted into definitive rankings using the Borda method by applying different weighting approaches (Equal Weight, Entropy, CRITIC and AHP). Periodic analyses (2000–2013, 2014–2023 and the overall period 2000–2023) revealed how countries’ CE performances have changed over time. Germany, France and Italy were found to be top performers in all periods, whereas Estonia, Malta and Bulgaria performed poorly. Although the Netherlands and Spain particularly stand out in waste management and the use of secondary raw materials, some Central and Eastern European countries were found to be more successful in the production–consumption dimension. This study provides an important assessment framework for policymakers and researchers by examining the CE performance of EU countries in a holistic and comparative manner.