Cerar described the transition to resource-friendly models as part of a civilisational emergency and said that the concept of the circular economy was a strategic priority for the government. He also argued that this was "the only way that our civilisation will continue to have development and cooperation".

He added that what the concept was bringing to Slovenia, was in line with the country's values and goals. He listed innovation, a competitive economy, new jobs and last but not least environmental awareness.

Janez Potočnik, who is a co-chair of the UN's International Resource Panel and was labelled by Cerar a pioneer in this field, said that while some may have wrong ideas, the concept of the circular economy was relatively easy to explain.

"It is about managing the economy in a way that keeps different resources in the production and consumption process as long as possible," he said, explaining products could be designed in new ways or the production process organised differently.

He said that a number of new concepts were emerging, as people had simply recognised that certain things, such as car and flats, were not being used enough.

Potočnik announced among other things that in a decade there would be no more privately owned cars in certain major cities, as this would no longer make sense.

A number of different debates and events are planned around the country in the coming weeks. Already next week, the government will host a national debate entitled Slovenia in the 4th Industrial Revolution.