Why moving from a Linear Economy to a Circular Economy will help reduce landfill

A Linear Economy (take, make, consume, waste) is where raw material is transformed into a thing or a product and after it ends its life cycle it is thrown out. What we know now for sure, is that if this model is not replaced, the world will approach a tipping point where it will lose the capacity to sustain itself.

A circular economy (reuse, repair and recycle) is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. This regenerative approach is in contrast to the traditional linear economy, which has a ‘take, make, dispose’ model of production.

The purpose of a circular economy is to prevent waste/land fill. Manufacturers and makers need to design reusable products, and when another new product is needed, the resource it is made from, has to be obtained sustainably.  Hence, when the raw material enters the cycle, it must follow the production-use-recycling-production cycle.

The circular economy is more profitable and less harmful to the environment and its main goals include sustainable economic growth, increased competitiveness, and new jobs.

Entrepreneurs need to find new ways to be creative (think outside the square) to come up with ways to use old products in new ways and when that product is at the end of its life it can recycled again.

But I’m not a manufacturer – what can I do?

Whilst we can’t re-manufacture products in our own homes, we can re purpose and reuse – instead of tossing your old products in the bin – have another look at it.

  • Can it be used for another purpose?
  • Will it break down?

Take it a step further and think before you buy:

  • Does that product come in too much packaging and if so is there an alternative?
  • Is there a more sustainable alternative?
  • Can it be used for another purpose?

Every little bit helps. Tread lightly friends!