From Linear to Circular: Rethinking waste
Understanding Circular Economy vs linear and how it reduces waste sustainably
What is the Circular Economy?
The Circular Economy as a concept has been around for a few decades. However, in recent years it has gained traction. The traditional economy mainly follows a linear approach whereby an item is manufactured, consumed, and waste generated at any stage of the process is discarded. In short: take, make and dispose.
On the other hand, with Circular Economy thinking, steps are taken to reduce waste, re-use where possible and recycle materials at the end of the process to ensure value stays in the system. By doing this we avoid wasting valuable resources, reduce pollution and design systems that retain value.
Why move away from a Linear Economy?
It is clear that recycling is better than dumping and discarding old products, but the circular economy goes further. It encourages thinking right back to the design stage—considering what materials a product is made from, how it will be used, and how it can be repaired or taken apart at the end of its life.
In some cases, this may lead to completely different business models. For example, clothing could be designed to be long-lasting and organic, then rented and returned rather than bought and discarded. Companies like MUD Jeans already apply this approach.
It could even be that instead of buying products like lighting, we lease them from companies in the future.
What progress is being made?
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is a leading organisation promoting the circular economy and its long-term benefits across global supply chains.
For this transition to succeed, three key groups must be involved:
- Politicians
- Producers
- Consumers
Politicians are working to drive change. The European Union has introduced Circular Economy proposals aimed at influencing member states to adopt more sustainable strategies.
Producers are also adapting. For example, Coca-Cola has been working to increase recycled content in its packaging, reducing reliance on raw materials. Smaller businesses are exploring models based on refurbishment, rental, and reuse.
The role of consumers
The final, and often most challenging group is consumers… all of us.
“Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds can change nothing.” – George Bernard Shaw
While some groups, particularly younger generations, are rethinking consumption and value, change can still be difficult. Technology may help drive this shift, but there is also a need to rethink habits and behaviours.
How change happens
An article by Marc Atherton of the RSA outlines key stages needed for change:
- Awareness – knowing a challenge exists
- Acceptance – understanding the issues
- Ability – having the capability to act
- Action – taking meaningful steps
- Assessment – seeing positive results
A circular future
The circular economy presents opportunities to reduce waste, make better use of resources, and rethink how products are designed and used.
By becoming more aware and making small changes in how we consume and dispose of products, we can all play a role in supporting a more sustainable future.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, Duncan Simpson, and do not necessarily reflect the views of recycle-more, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.