In addition to these economic benefits, the European Union also gains a great deal in terms of the environment. Applying the principles of the circular economy to the construction, food and mobility sectors could lead to a 48% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030 and as much as 83% by 2050, compared to the CO2 emissions in those years if the current model is adopted. The application of circularity to the economy also reduces the use of metals and concrete for means of transport and construction, fossil fuels, land, fertilizers, water and pesticides. By optimising the construction, food and mobility sectors, space for infrastructure can be replaced by green areas and housing, thereby increasing the quality of life in cities and improving air quality (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2015b).