CIRCLES Curriculum for youth workers

Aims of the tool

The aim of the tool is to help young people, youth workers, educators and community leaders understand circular economy, apply circular principles in daily life, and promote sustainable choices across areas such as waste, energy, water, transport, food, fashion, housing, communities and digital innovation.

Description of the tool

Tool description

This learning tool introduces circular economy in a practical, youth-friendly way. It helps learners understand why the shift from a linear “take, make, use, dispose” model to a circular model is necessary, and how circular principles can be applied in everyday life, communities and key sectors of society.

Through 12 chapters, the curriculum explores the core principles of circular economy, EU policies and sustainability agendas, waste management, energy and water use, transport, food consumption, fashion, housing, community activities, digital innovation and future circular economy trends. It is designed for young people, youth workers, educators, community leaders and lifelong learners who want to better understand, apply and promote sustainable practices.

Learning outcomes

After using this tool, learners will be able to:
- Explain the basic concept of circular economy and distinguish it from the linear economy.
- Understand the environmental, social and economic reasons for transitioning to circular models.
- Identify key circular economy principles such as reduce, reuse, repair, recycle, regenerate and share.
- Recognise how circular economy connects with EU policies, sustainability goals and the 2050 agenda.
- Analyse practical examples of circular economy in waste, energy, water, transport, food, fashion, housing, communities and digital technologies.
- Reflect on their own consumption habits and identify more sustainable everyday choices.
- Develop ideas for local community actions that reduce waste, extend product life and promote resource efficiency.
- Advocate for circular thinking among peers, organisations and local communities.