Faced with the current linear economy model, in which materials are extracted, things are manufactured and later thrown away, the circular economy aims to revolutionize our production system and end the unsustainable waste of energy and resources.
Actually, we are not talking about anything new, because the circular economy does nothing other than imitate the processes that occur naturally on our planet: matter and energy are continuously transformed and there is no waste as such , because what for one component of the system is waste, for another it may be raw material. There are many examples in nature: dung organisms that feed on the excrement of others, biogeochemical cycles or the decomposition process of fallen tree leaves that ends up returning nutrients and organic matter to the earth.
The objective of the circular economy is, precisely, to be able to close the cycles as happens in nature, and to do so avoiding the massive extraction of raw materials and the waste of energy. It is a concept that goes far beyond reducing, reusing and recycling (although it also encompasses the 3Rs), as it aims to connect some processes with others, extend the useful life of products (very important) and respect the natural regeneration times of the resources.
Rethink, redesign, repair, redistribute … there are many more “Rs” that enter into the circular economy, in which no waste is wasted but rather becomes a resource for a new process.
There are many examples of circular economy, from home composting systems that use organic waste and obtain compost to add to the soil in pots to mobile phones manufactured in a modular way so that their components can be individually repaired and extend their life useful device (the famous Fairphone).
It is no longer just a matter of preference. The current linear model is reaching the limit of its physical capacity and it is necessary to explore other alternatives. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which works with governments, researchers and companies to promote the transition towards a restorative and regenerative economy shows us some real examples of companies or groups that are already applying very good ideas in this line. The Foundation advises these initiatives, identifies their weak points and helps them move forward to close the cycles and achieve a more complete ‘circularity’.
