EFPIA, representing the research-based pharmaceutical industry at the European level, released a white paper to support the principles of the EU Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan. Implementation of a circular economy is fundamental to help limit global warming, an objective that is welcomed by the pharmaceutical industry. EFPIA wishes to work collaboratively with the EU in shaping the legislative framework and within its organizations to mitigate our impacts. The white paper addresses the changes throughout value chains needed to transition to a more circular economy, from product design, manufacturing and supply to new business and market models.According to EFPIA, the pharmaceutical industry’s approach to circularity builds on efforts to decarbonise the healthcare sector and aligns with the EU’s approach, even if challenges are present due to highly regulated environment typical of the pharma sector. Circularity and regulation of pharmaceuticals should be carefully balanced, states EFPIA. Consideration should also be made with regard to factors that may impact on pharmaceutical activities, for example on use of secondary raw materials in manufacturing. The influence that EU’s actions may exert on the approach that other countries and jurisdictions take to the issue of circular economy should also be taken into due account, so to safeguard international supply of medicinal products.