TS ISO 59004

TS ISO 59004 brings together the core vocabulary used in circular economy, and it also sets out the principles and implementation guidance that help organizations move from concept to practice. In this context, circular economy is treated as a broader operating model than waste reduction alone: it is about keeping the value of products, materials, and resources in use for as long as possible and aligning economic activity with that objective.

How the terminology framework is organised

A shared vocabulary is especially important in circular economy work because it gives organizations a consistent way to describe concepts, actions, and outcomes. The terms addressed by this standard help clarify how organizations, value chains, and value networks understand circularity. In general technical use, that matters for communication, strategy, reporting, and collaboration, because it reduces ambiguity between terms such as reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recovery, each of which can carry a different operational meaning.

What the implementation guidance adds

The document also establishes a vision and principles for a circular economy, then provides guidance, including possible actions, for organizations seeking to implement it. That makes it relevant to private and public organizations alike, regardless of size, jurisdiction, or position within a value chain or value network. The practical value of this kind of standard is that it offers a common direction while still leaving room for organizations to adapt actions to their own context, capabilities, and business model.

• Provides a common vocabulary for circular economy.
• Sets out vision and principles for the topic.
• Offers guidance and possible actions for implementation.
• Applies to public or private organizations of any size and in any jurisdiction.
• Supports organizations seeking to contribute to sustainable development.