The circular economy provides an answer to the great challenge of the 21st century, which is to utilise raw materials with much greater efficiency. In order to continue feeding humanity, provide it with the necessary goods and to guarantee people a decent existence, a fundamental change in how we use raw materials is necessary. We are talking about an economy that provides for people’s needs without placing an unacceptable burden on the environment and without exhausting natural resources. This challenge will require the introduction of changes in a broad sense. Technological, social and system innovations will have to be implemented. This transition presents economic opportunities to the Netherlands.