Bibliogr. s. 339-340. Publ. nie posiada nr ISBN

Circular Economy (CE) is a new strategy of development adopted by European Union (EU) authorities in 2014, aiming to boost global competitiveness, foster sustainable economic growth and generate new jobs. The CE approach keeps the added value in products for as long as possible and eliminates waste; moreover, it implies full systemic change and innovation not only in technologies, but also in organization, society, finance methods and policies. Such an approach leads to a new model of production and consumption, and a new relationship between stakeholders at the local, regional, national and EU levels. This article highlights the functions of such a new strategic model of development at the regional level, demonstrating the importance of the introduction of CE assumptions into regional development policies, programmes and plans. The text also emphasizes the active involvement of all regional stakeholders (local and regional authorities, business and finance sector, civil society and citizens) in the process of transition to a CE-based regional development model. There is a lack of studies devoted to CE opportunities, challenges and limitations for particular European regions where CE is a relatively new strategic direction. This article therefore presents a case study for CE implementation in the Lesser Poland Region (LPR). LPR stakeholders are actively investigating CE opportunities, and the first CE actions have been undertaken during the last two years. Further research appears to be needed examining the opportunities and limitations of CE implementation in the LPR to help identify the most effective means of transitioning to a CE. This study has applied state-of-the-art diagnostics for CE implementation in the LPR. The diagnostics were based on analysis of current economic, social and environmental conditions as well as on examination of strategic and operational documents.