TS ISO 59004

TS ISO 59004 is the standard that provides a shared vocabulary for circular economy and brings together its core principles with implementation-oriented guidance. In general technical terms, circular economy is an approach to organization and decision-making that aims to keep products, components and materials in use for as long as possible, preserve value, and design systems for better resource efficiency from the outset.

How the vocabulary, principles and guidance fit together

The main value of this standard is that it clarifies the key terms used when discussing circular economy. This helps align the meaning of concepts such as reuse, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing and value retention within one framework. A common vocabulary supports clearer internal strategy setting, more consistent communication with stakeholders and better comparison between different business models.

The standard also sets out a vision and a set of principles. In general technical context, this means organizations are encouraged to look beyond waste management alone and consider a broader perspective that includes product life, material flows, resource efficiency and systems thinking. Its guidance is intended to help organizations understand possible actions suited to their own context; it does not prescribe one single mandatory pathway for every organization.

Who it is relevant for

• Public or private organizations
• Organizations of any size
• Organizations acting individually or collectively
• Organizations located in any jurisdiction
• Actors positioned anywhere in a value chain or value network

For organizations that want to understand and contribute to circular economy while supporting sustainable development, TS ISO 59004 offers a conceptual reference point for strategy, operations, procurement, design and business model development. Its practical value lies less in prescribing specific technical solutions and more in creating a common language and direction for transition.