The Circular Economy: Redefining Waste and Promoting Sustainability
We live in a world filled with plastic. Found in the depths of the Mariana Trench, in the food we eat, and even in our bloodstream. Better managing and reducing our waste is a means to protect ourselves and the environment. According to the U.N. Environment Programme, circular economic measures could reduce new ocean plastics by 80%. To rethink waste and optimize resource efficiency, we must investigate our options. Read on to discover how adopting circular practices can lead us away from wasteful behaviors.
Contrasting linear and circular economic models
If the circular model is a solution, what are we utilizing now?
Current business strategies use the linear or “take-make-dispose” model. The linear model focuses on raw material extraction, which results in the depletion of valuable resources, environmental damage, and an alarming rise in waste production.
The practice of linear and circular models has been a part of human history since we began crafting goods. Even today, the metal trade follows a historical pattern. Metals are sold for currency, valued as assets, utilized in infrastructure, and treasured for artistic value. The versatility of metal leads to a demand that exceeds market availability. This imbalance necessitates a shift in our approach. Although circular practices do not eliminate resource extraction, they present a transformative opportunity. Approximately 70% of steel production in the United States comes from recycled scrap. Our company stocks recycled silver (and glass) jewelry. Lengthening the lifecycle of a resource reduces excessive waste.
Benefits of transitioning to a circular economy
Engaging in the reuse, repair, and recycling of materials has a well-defined positive impact on the environment. But for-profit businesses exist to generate money. What are the economic benefits of the circular model? Using existing materials can lower production costs, decrease energy consumption, and minimize material losses. Re-envisioning manufacturing creates opportunities for innovation, job creation, and economic growth in recycling, remanufacturing, and renewable energy.
Circular models promote a more resilient and self-sufficient society by reducing dependence on scarce resources and minimizing exposure to price volatility. Adopting circular practices balances sustainability and industry by eliminating waste, extending material life, and facilitating the regeneration of natural systems.
Examples of circular strategy implementation
Organizations and communities have embraced circular economic principles and achieved great success. The examples below demonstrate that circular practices can operate at various scales and across diverse sectors.
For instance, Patagonia has pioneered a variety of different environmentally-focused programs. Their “Worn Wear” initiative allows consumers to send in their used products in exchange for up to 50% of the resale price. In late-2021, Patagonia launched its product take-back program. This program accepts Patagonia t-shirts made with cotton, hemp, or linen and recycles them into Infinna™ Fiber. Patagonia also manufactures polyester clothing using pre-consumer and post-consumer textile waste.
The City of Amsterdam identified two primary objectives in its 2020-2025 Strategy:
use 50% fewer new raw materials in Amsterdam by 2030, and
have a 100% circular city economy by 2050.
To achieve these objectives, Amsterdam proposes to focus on food and organic waste streams, consumer goods, and infrastructure development. The city plan acknowledges the risks involved and emphasizes each economic participant’s role in its success. By driving these changes and focusing on major sectors, the City can stimulate innovation and cooperation between businesses and institutions.
Implementing circularity in business and everyday life
Encouraging the development of circular practices requires active participation. Private business plays a critical role in setting the tone of future economic activity. Adopting sustainable design principles can reduce the volume of raw materials used in manufacturing. Developing product life-extending strategies keep products out of landfills longer. And integrating recycled materials into supply chains reduces pressure on strained resources. Continual innovation has led to alternative business products, such as soy and algae ink for printing, which further mitigate industrial impacts.
For individuals, adopting circular practices requires little investment. Anyone who has found sewing supplies in a biscuit tin has witnessed this concept. Coincidentally, learning basic sewing skills to mend clothing is a worthy goal. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, clothing is the primary source of textiles in collected trash. When you go shopping, practice mindful consumption. Support local businesses that prioritize sustainable practices. Opt for reusable products when disposable ones wear out. Ensure proper recycling of materials when it is time to dispose of them. All of these activities can make a significant impact.
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By redefining waste, optimizing resource efficiency, and promoting sustainability, we have the power to forge an ecologically sound and economically prosperous future. Across different scales and sectors, successful examples of circular economy practices have already demonstrated their feasibility and impact. Every small action contributes to the larger goal of creating a more enduring and regenerative economic system. Let us embrace this transformative approach and work collaboratively to build a more environmentally sound and resilient future for all.
Sources
Microplastics found to permeate the ocean’s deepest points (web page)
Microplastics in the food chain: How harmful are they? (web page)
Discovery and quantification of plastic particle pollution in human blood (web page)
UNEP In 2022 (web page)
Forging a Clean Steel Economy in the United States (web page)
Circular Economy (web page)
Product Takeback (web page)
Patagonia Programs (web page)
Amsterdam Circular 2020-2025 Strategy (PDF)
Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling (web page)
