The future is circular

Circular economy: definition

“An economy designed to regenerate itself”. According to Ellen MacArthur, founder of the foundation that takes her name, circular economy is a system in which all activities, starting from production, are planned so that even waste becomes a resource.

A new economic and sustainable model

Circular economy goes beyond the concept of linear economy. If the latter is based on linear processes (take-make-waste), circular economy is conceived as an economic and productive circular model, based on three general principles:

  • planning products in advance to avoid waste and pollution from the start
  • prolonging the lifespan of products and materials considering reuse and recycle, so that they can continue to be used for other purposes
  • regenerating natural systems, to give back to the soil the nutrients that contribute to preserving the balance of ecosystems
Infographic on the circular economy

In the EU, on average, every year:

  • each person uses 15 tons of materials
  • each person generates 4.5 tons of waste

Source: www.mite.gov.it

An opportunity that must be taken

Circular economy requires a coordinated effort. Sustainability is one of the priorities on the EU’s agenda: the European Commission has presented the European Green Deal, that aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

The future is circular. Each one of us can contribute to a more sustainable tomorrow. Are we ready to take this opportunity?

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