Circular Economy Is Key to Future Value, Says Marion Schuppe at Paris Conference

Marion Schuppe, joint head of investments at MakeSense, made a compelling case for circular economy investments while addressing investors and corporate leaders at the Fashion Act conference held at the Étoile Business Centre in Paris on April 15-16. Emphasizing the urgency of systemic change, Schuppe argued that transitioning to a circular economy is essential for long-term value creation. She highlighted the fragility of the current economic model, noting its heavy dependence on fossil fuels and extractive industries, and warned that failure to adapt could lead to its eventual collapse.

Addressing the risks involved, Schuppe acknowledged that circular investments often demand significant capital, time, and patience, with limited short-term returns. However, she pointed to the growing economic potential of the sector, citing estimates that the circular economy could be worth $4.5 trillion globally by 2030 and generate up to 700,000 jobs in Europe. She also underlined the €50 billion investment gap between sustainable and non-sustainable sectors in Europe, urging investors to view circularity as a strategic necessity rather than a niche opportunity.

Schuppe called for coordinated action among governments, businesses, and consumers to drive the transition, stressing that policy support and financial incentives are crucial to level the playing field. She advocated for stronger public-sector involvement, tax benefits for sustainable enterprises, and scalable investment mechanisms. While admitting that past investments have not yielded exceptional returns, she insisted that lessons learned have strengthened the sector. Ultimately, she concluded that rapid, collective mobilisation is the most effective way to reduce disruption and unlock both financial and social value in the shift toward a circular economy.

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