{"id":2768,"date":"2026-01-12T14:25:51","date_gmt":"2026-01-12T13:25:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marcocapellini.it\/measuring-circularity-beyond-narration\/"},"modified":"2026-02-11T15:51:50","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T14:51:50","slug":"measuring-circularity-beyond-narration","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marcocapellini.it\/en\/measuring-circularity-beyond-narration\/","title":{"rendered":"Measuring circularity: beyond narration"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In the contemporary landscape of sustainability, the concept of \u2018circularity\u2019<\/strong> has become an essential pillar. It is constantly cited in association with values such as resource regeneration<\/strong>, corporate responsibility<\/strong>, systemic competitiveness<\/strong> and value resilience<\/strong>. However, there is a real risk that circularity will remain confined to a \u2018lexical bubble\u2019, an evocative label but one lacking in operational substance. <\/p>\n\n

For circularity to translate into a real competitive advantage, we need to ask ourselves a fundamental question: how can we transform a principle into a measurable and objective variable?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

The regulatory push: towards the Ecodesign Regulation<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

The current European legislative scenario is forcing a decisive change of gear. The new Regulation EU about Ecodesign (ESPR – Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation)<\/a><\/strong> marks the end of the era of generic declarations. The standard introduces stringent requirements on sustainable and circular design, including through the Digital Product Passport (DPP)<\/strong>: the tool through which companies will have to demonstrate their environmental performance with data in hand. <\/p>\n\n

We are no longer dealing with voluntary adherence, but with an obligation of transparency that requires a radical cultural shift. Circularity is not declared: it is measured and communicated.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

Quality vs quantity: methodology as a strategic compass for decision-making<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

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The debate on measurement revolves around the distinction between qualitative and quantitative approaches<\/strong>. Although the former is essential for inspiring and building an overall vision, only the latter allows processes to be governed: <\/p>\n\n

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  1. From storytelling to validation<\/strong>: where quality describes an intention, quantity certifies a result.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. From inspiration to planning<\/strong>: numerical data allows you to establish precise KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), transforming sustainability into a measurable business objective such as turnover or EBITDA.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. From compliance to strategy<\/strong>: an analytical approach allows different design scenarios to be compared (Life Cycle Thinking), choosing the one that maximises material efficiency and minimises impact.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n

    Adopting a quantitative perspective means equipping yourself with the tools to respond to the challenges of the global market. Measuring means critically analysing how each component, from raw materials to end-of-life management, contributes to the creation of shared value<\/strong>. It is a challenge that cuts across the organisation, involving R&D, procurement, marketing and logistics. <\/p>\n\n

    A good starting point for companies is to begin conducting a Gap Analysis ESPR<\/strong><\/a> to understand the state of the art and evaluate the next steps to be taken.<\/p>\n\n

    Towards a universal grammar: the technical regulatory framework<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

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    To avoid fragmentation, the market is converging towards international standards that guarantee data interoperability and performance comparability.<\/p>\n\n