What is the circular economy?
Imagine a world where waste is a thing of the past, resources are used to their fullest potential, and nature flourishes in all its glory.
This vision is at the heart of an economic concept that’s gaining popularity: the circular economy.
It’s all about redesigning business models and supply chains, promoting shared economies, and using innovative technologies to recycle materials in a circular way.
It’s not just about technology…
It’s also about changing the way we behave and work together. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation defines this concept, and we’re proud to adopt their definition, based on three principles, driven by design.
Eliminate waste
and pollution
Circulate products and materials
Regenerate nature
and society
Circular thinking for a sustainable future
This first principle of the circular economy is based on the elimination of waste and pollution generated from consumerism.
It can be achieved by designing products and systems that allow materials to be reused, shared, repaired, refurbished, remanufactured, and recycled.
This contrasts with the current linear take-make-waste system that results in the loss of resources and generates waste that ends up in landfills or incinerators across the globe.
1. Eliminate
2. Circulate
This second principle is focused on keeping products and materials in use at their highest value, either as products, components or raw materials. It is about ensuring products are designed with their eventual circulation in mind.
There are two cycles to achieve this state - the technical cycle and the biological cycle.
The Technical Cycle
Involves reusing, repairing, remanufacturing, and recycling products.
The Biological Cycle
Involves composting or anaerobically digesting biodegradable materials.
Embracing these approaches can help preserve resources, reduce waste, and create a more sustainable future.
3. Regenerate
The third principle is to regenerate nature and build a better future for our society.
This means shifting from a take-make-waste linear economy to a circular economy that supports natural processes and leaves more room for nature to thrive.
Explaining the Circular Economy and How Society Can Re-Think Progress: An animated video produced by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
Building a restorative economy
This video explores how - through a change in perspective - we can re-design the way our economy works.