Why Circular Economics Could Help Save The Environment
What is circular economics?
A circular economy is one in which waste is eliminated, dependence on finite resources is phased out, and growth is defined by positive, society-wide benefits. Circular economies are based on three main principles:
Design out waste and pollution: Most waste and pollution are not accidents, but consequences of decisions made during the design process. By using innovative materials and technologies we can ensure that waste is not created in the first place.
Keep products and materials in use: While designing new waste-free products is crucial, it doesn’t solve the problem of all the plastic and other non-renewable materials that are already in circulation. A circular economy would focus on innovative ways of re-using all existing materials so that they don’t end up in landfills and oceans..
Regenerate natural systems: Nothing is wasted in nature. A leaf that falls from a tree provides nutrients for the forest. A circular economy would emulate this process by returning valuable nutrients to the soil and other ecosystems, so that we not only protect the environment but actively improve it.
How does it differ from our current system?
Beginning and end: Traditional economics relies on a linear principle of a beginning and end to every product that is produced. This typically means that a product is created from natural resources, used for a specific purpose, and then discarded in a landfill. In a circular economy, products are continuously cycling through the system without a clear beginning or end.
Growth: In a traditional system, growth is measured by success metrics such as the GDP which operate on the assumption that growth is limitless. However, when growth is dependent on the availability of natural resources, infinite growth is not a realistic possibility. Success in circular economics is not measured by upword growth, but the ability of the economy to satisfy the needs of the population without producing waste or damaging the environment.
How can we move towards a circular economy?
As difficult as change can be, the reality is that the current system of economics is simply not sustainable for much longer. Natural resources are dwindling, waste is building up, and climate change is disrupting our entire way of life. There are three major ways to begin our transition to a circular economy.
1. Consume Less
Most businesses in our current economy rely on the fundamental principle of selling more products to more people. This focus on production has a severe impact on the use of natural resources. In fact, during the 20th century, the world's use of raw materials grew at twice the rate of population growth.
Behavior change campaigns such as cutting the use of single-use plastics, reducing “fast fashion,” and addressing food waste can all be helpful in encouraging consumers to make better choices.
2. Consume Better
In order for a circular economy to work effectively, consumers must not only consume less, but also consume better. Shifting to a plant-based diet, choosing sustainable products, or buying products made from recyclable materials are all ways to improve our purchasing decisions. Another way to consume better is to not consume at all. Sharing rides, using streaming entertainment options, and bartering with neighbors are all ways to reduce consumption.
3. Create Systemic Change
The truth is that no matter how much the individual does, the most effective way to make real change is on a systemic level. Supporting politicians and policies that make the environment a priority is an important way to shift towards a circular economy.
Fortunately, there are some examples of how circular economies are already successful around the world. For example, the Republic of Korea, introduced a compulsory food waste recycling program and a ban on food waste in landfills that led to 95% of waste being recycled into compost, animal feed, biogas or solid fuel.
The future of our planet depends on the choices we make today. Working towards a circular economy is an important step towards providing a sustainable, healthy environment for all the earth’s inhabitants.