Brighton and Hove City Council has received commendation for its pioneering work in advancing a circular economy.

The local authority has been singled out in fresh guidance from the UK government aimed at mayoral strategic authorities, with officials recognising its commitment to weaving circular economy principles throughout its operations and wider city initiatives.

According to the official guidance, Brighton and Hove City Council is recognised as an established leader in advancing a place-based circular economy.

Councillor Tim Rowkins, who serves as cabinet member for net zero and environmental services, said that Brighton and Hove has established itself as a trailblazer in circular economy practices, designing out waste in products and keeping them in use for longer, strengthening local supply chains and finding ways to regenerate natural resources.

He explained that through their recently published route map, they have developed an action plan that focuses on supporting the city and their own services to reduce environmental impact while creating sustainable growth and social value for residents, from lower bills to opportunities for new skills and jobs.

The council’s methodology appears in the communities section of the MSA guidance and encompasses initiatives such as Climate for Communities and Food Use Places, which promote circular food systems and waste reduction.

The government guidance seeks to assist mayoral strategic authorities in incorporating circular economy principles to foster more robust and sustainable regional development.