Circular Economy and Central Bank Digital Currency

The emergence of central bank digital currency (CBDC) provides an opportunity for central banks to make an important contribution to the transition to a circular economy. This paper examines the role of a central bank digital currency in the circular economy. Central banks can contribute to the transition to a circular economy in two ways: first, by making central bank digital currency accessible to circular businesses and other players in the circular economy sector, and second, by looking into how the design features of CBDC can support circular economy goals. On the role of CBDC in the circular economy, I argue that a central bank digital currency offers a better payment option for circular economy financial transactions; central bank digital currency can lead to greater financial inclusion for ‘unbanked’ informal workers in the circular economy; CBDC can create a gateway that allows a central bank to offer financial assistance to distressed circular businesses; using a central bank digital currency can reduce illicit activities in the circular economy; a central bank digital currency can be used to provide stimulus funding to support circular businesses during crises; and, a central bank digital currency can offer low transaction cost for circular economy financial transactions. The paper also shows the link between CBDC and the circular economy. It also offers a critical perspective on the link between CBDC and the circular economy.