The Long View Exploring Product Lifetime Extension

Less than nine months into 2017, more resources than our planet produces over the whole year were consumed globally, marked by Earth Overshoot Day. Short use and fast replacement of products increasingly dictates consumption patterns in many regions. As fast turnover of consumption is detrimental for the environment, a transition to a more circular economy and to sustainable consumption and production practices is urgent to alleviate this situation. This research paper aims to provide policy recommendations on the opportunities available to consumers, the private sector and governments of development and developed economies to address product lifetime extension. This can reduce resource use and waste, while preserving the economic value embedded in products. The primary focus is on policy- making.