Legal challenges in the implementation of the circular economy and its impact on environmental law
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The study analyzes the legal challenges that hinder the transition to the circular economy and their impact on the effectiveness of contemporary environmental law. Through a systematic literature review of scientific literature, comparative regulations and international reports, barriers such as the lack of a unified legal definition, the dispersion of administrative competences, the absence of specific regulatory obligations and the scarce harmonization between jurisdictions were identified. It was also found that the complexity of administrative procedures, the lack of appropriate tax incentives and uncertainty about legal liability limit investment and innovation in circular models. The findings show that these limitations generate a fragmented regulatory environment that perpetuates linear production systems and compromises environmental sustainability objectives. The study concludes that overcoming these barriers requires comprehensive regulatory reforms that provide legal clarity, clear incentives and coherent governance mechanisms.
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