The OECD is a strategic partner of the European Commission's Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI), whose goal is for the circular economy to be implemented in all European cities and regions, at subnational levels.

With this aim in mind, the OECD is supporting 10 European cities and regions with circular economy assessments and solutions focused on the governance of the circular economy. These regions include West Region, Ireland.

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has therefore sought the support of the Basque Government through Ihobe to support the Irish region, as it considers the Basque Country to be a successful region in the deployment of circular economy policies.

Iñigo Aizpuru, an Ihobe expert in the circular economy, held nearly a dozen meetings with thirty or so local stakeholders in Galway (Ireland) from 18 to 21 November; the focus was on showcasing the opportunities offered by the circular economy based on the Basque experience.

As a result, the OECD will publish an action-oriented policy paper, containing recommendations for West Ireland, greatly inspired by the circular economy in the Basque Country.