Post by account_disabled on Feb 19, 2024 23:45:26 GMT -5
The circular economy is the most attractive business model to which companies must begin to migrate. Not only because it is profitable, but also because it has the ability to generate a positive impact on communities, companies and the planet. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation defines the circular economy as a restorative system whose objective is to maintain the usefulness of products, components and materials, as well as preserve their value. This model provides opportunities to create well-being, growth and employment, while reducing environmental pressures. The concept can, in principle, be applied to all types of natural resources, including biotic and abiotic materials, water and land. On the other hand, the aim is to ensure that the value of a product is maintained in the economy for as long as possible and that a complete cycle is completed so that in the end it returns to the supplier and they can carry out responsible management. So at the beginning of 2021, it is worth taking a moment to consider how the concept of the circular economy has emerged and evolved.
Circular economy trends for 2021 We share with you three trends that defined the circular economy in 2020 and what they could mean for this year. 1. Reuse is on the rise Despite some setbacks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the trend of switching from single-use to reusable packaging is gaining real and important momentum. In 2021, the pressure for food and drink companies to adopt this trend Europe Cell Phone Number List will be crucial, as they have recently been slightly behind on their pilots and a general failure to move quickly enough towards commitments to make all packaging recyclable, compostable or reusable by 2025. KeepCup, the reusable cup that helps the planet If brands and retailers intend to deliver on their public commitments, real investment in reuse platforms and systems will need to be seen over the next year. 2. Metrics start to materialize For experts in the field, 2020 saw an advance in tools and standards to calculate and track the circular nature of products, businesses and systems. As in the case of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development that published the Circular Transition Indicators ; The Ellen MacArthur Foundation launched the Circulytics tool , while the GRI established a new waste standard and the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute launched the fourth version of its product standard .
6 environmental events of 2020 that will shape 2021
This commitment honed and strengthened the promise of the circular economy, however, more attention is required in developing reports that demonstrate all the results achieved through the circular economy. In 2021, experts expect to see an emphasis on reporting and consistency of data behind various claims, as well as an effort to incorporate circular economy metrics into existing sustainability and ESG frameworks. In addition, data and analysis will be sought on the link between climate change and the circular economy, as well as areas of opportunity to mitigate carbon emissions through circular economy strategies. 3. It's still plastic Plastic continues to be the star of the show when it comes to the global conversation around materials management and circular economy solutions, especially with the growing demand for this product amid the pandemic, which has caused a surge in entry of plastic waste into waterways and oceans. While it's not all bad, 2020 also allowed people to learn more about the world of plastic and its impact, which could stem the tide of plastic pollution. While reduction remains the number one solution to the global plastic waste crisis, many companies continue to focus solely on end-of-life management, especially in chemical recycling technologies for plastic packaging and synthetic textiles. 2021 will likely bring continued tension between the plastic waste problem and the production and use of plastic. Without a doubt, during this year and those that follow, interest groups will shine the spotlight on the commitments and actions of their favorite companies. Let's see how they will react.