Why We Need a Transformative Circular Economy
- ecmadore2
- Jan 2
- 2 min read
WHAT
“Circular Economy (CE) is widely recognized as the new economic model aiming to maintain the value of materials, parts, and products as long as possible, minimize the extraction
and use of virgin resources and waste generation using design strategies that slow the flow of resources, close loops between production and post-use, and increase resource efficiency.”
WHY
It can be used to Operationalize or Build out one or more of the Four Dimensions of a Social Enterprise
CE can be an approach to developing the Dimensions of a Business Model, Solution to a Problem, Scaling Impact
CAVEATS
“However, despite the well-understood imperative to depart from the unsustainable linear model of “take-make-waste,” concrete CE actions have been predominantly incremental.
Typical examples include the excessive focus on recycling, and substituting materials and practices that superficially seem “less bad.” Other measures, commonly referred to as ‘Rs,’ generally have more significant impacts. Reuse, repurpose, repair, and remanufacture typically retain more value, and reduce is the most important but also the most avoided of all Rs.
HOW
“The sustainability transition requires transformative systemic change, shifting away from mass production and consumption towards the dematerialization of production processes and maximizing the value and longevity of materials and products.“
Bold leadership is needed to move towards a new economic and social system that decouples economic prosperity and well-being from resource consumption and environmental degradation.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
What Is a Circular Economy
NB Text taken from article in quotes. Comments reference Four Dimensions of a Social Enterprise, D1 Solution, D2 Business Model, D3 Scale Impact, D4 Skills. See Full Guide in Archive.
“It is not possible to found a lasting power upon injustice, perjury and treachery.”
- Demosthenes
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