Circular Transition Indicators

What is it?

The Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) are a collection of metrics that measure various aspects of circularity.

Which problem does it solve?

CTI solves two problems on two different layers:

  1. CTI creates transparency about the circularity of a defined entity (product, process, factory, company …)

  2. CTI enables a comparison of metrics across entities and industries

Who should be involved?

CTI aggregates data from the organisation’s material flow. Therefore, the most relevant functions are Procurement, Logistics, Operations, and Waste Management. Product development, sustainability, and accounting experts will most likely be needed.

How does it work?

The suggested CTI process has seven steps:

  1. Scope: Determine the boundaries

  2. Select: Select the indicators

  3. Collect: Identify and collect the sources

  4. Calculate: Perform the calculations

  5. Analyze: Interpret results

  6. Prioritize: Identify opportunities

  7. Apply: Plan and act

This can be followed by another loop to measure progress.

What to be cautious about?

CTI is a descriptive method that relies on the quality of the input data. It does not set goals, and the results are only as precise as the input data provided.

Where to find out more about it?

The WBCSD provides comprehensive manuals and an academy about CTI:

https://www.wbcsd.org/Programs/Circular-Economy/Metrics-Measurement/Circular-transition-indicators

Who contributed to its creation & development?

The creative process is mostly a collective cultural process of creation, inspiration, copy & remix. Therefore, the following entries shall be understood as markers of significant milestones of this concept, not as an exclusive and exhaustive list of all people involved.

The CTI framework was developed and is maintained by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).