Change the goal.
The three guiding principles of a circular economy: Reduce. Reuse. Regenerate.
“Less bad” isn’t good enough
The usual way of thinking about sustainable solutions to waste problems basically amount to being more efficient with less – wasting less, creating less pollution, being “less bad” than we were before.
This isn’t good enough.
This doesn't fix the underlying problem of a system designed to create pollution and waste. It also doesn’t address the connection between economic growth and resource consumption.
Circular economy is a better goal
The goal of a circular economy is to break the link between economic activity and the use of natural resources so that economic wellbeing is not tied to environmental destruction.
In nature, there is no waste. Resources are recovered and reused. A circular economy is an economic system in which products and processes are designed so materials stay in use and maintain value, minimizing waste and letting natural systems thrive. In a circular economy, waste is eliminated through better design, rather than developing novel ways to use waste that has already been created.
Using circular economy principles can achieve environmental, social, and economic goals that are not in conflict with one another. This improves the health of people and the environment, and creates a more resilient and just economy.
