The global economy wastes nearly a third of its output each year, according to a new analysis that puts the annual loss at about $29 trillion. The Circularity Gap Report 2026 attributes the shortfall to premature product failure, energy inefficiencies, and other avoidable losses.
The report, produced by research group Circle Economy and consulting firm Deloitte, values the world economy at roughly $96 trillion. It calculates that €25.4 trillion, or $29 trillion, slips away through five main channels. End-of-life waste accounts for the largest share at $11.6 trillion, followed by energy losses of $10.1 trillion and worn-out infrastructure worth $6 trillion.