The Circular Economy for Investors & Lenders benchmark series, initiated in 2025, is produced by Circular Australia in collaboration with Mercer. It examines how financial institutions can integrate circular economy principles within lending and investment frameworks. The series aims to support the finance sector in managing transition risks and identifying opportunities associated with circular economic models.

The benchmark draws on interviews, consultations, and data analysis involving professionals from investment and lending sectors in Australia and internationally. It combines qualitative insights with quantitative tools such as heatmaps and scorecards to assess circular and linear risks across portfolios.

Its purpose is to provide finance professionals with a structured approach to incorporating circular economy considerations into governance, risk assessment, and portfolio management. The benchmark serves as a reference for investors and lenders seeking to align financial decision-making with sustainability frameworks and evolving regulatory expectations.

Overall, the series provides practical guidance and frameworks that help financial institutions evaluate and integrate circular economy principles in a consistent and measurable way.