FOEN, Topics > Topic Economy and Consumption > Resource conservation and circular economy > Circular economy: What is a circular economy? ([Internet, 2025-04-22](https://www.bafu.admin.ch/bafu/en/home/topics/economy-consumption/circular-economy.html))
In a linear economic system, raw materials are extracted, and products are manufactured and sold, consumed and disposed of (see following diagram). This leads to shortages of raw materials, emissions, large volumes of waste and the associated environmental problems.