Circular economy: what is, benefits and examples

The continuous increase of the human population added to the excessive consumption patterns of a linear economic model based on “using and throwing”, not only have led us to the exhaustion of natural resources and the destruction of ecosystems, but also to excessive waste generation. To this, the concept of “circular economy” is born, a new paradigm or model that seeks Modify production and consumption models dominant in a way in which waste can be used as resources and re -enter the productive system. Thus, the value of the materials and products is preserved during as long as possible. The circular economy is only possible if there is an adequate waste management throughout the life cycle of a product.

The circular economy is based on three fundamental principles, including:

Preserve and improve natural capital

This principle seeks to use natural resources efficiently, prioritizing those renewable and reducing the consumption of non -renewable raw materials. However, the circular economy is not limited only to the optimization of the use of resources, but also drives the regeneration of ecosystemspromoting practices that have the objective of strengthening and restoring natural capital.

Optimize the use of resources

This principle focuses on prolong the life of products and their components through strategies such as reuse, repair, reconditioning and recycling. The ecodesign plays a key role, since it allows to develop products that are more durable, easy to disassemble and with recoverable materials, thus facilitating its reintegration in the productive cycle with the lowest possible loss of value.

Improve system efficiency

In order for the circular economy to function effectively, it is necessary to optimize system performance in an integral way. This It involves minimizing negative externalitiessuch as pollutant waste and emissions and boosting an industry by products can become inputs for another. A more efficient use of soil, energy and natural resources are also sought, promoting synergies among the different actors involved in the process.

Among the benefits of the circular economy we find:

• Waste reduction and environmental protection: Promoting practices such as separation in origin, reuse and recycling allows to reintegrate materials to the market, significantly reducing the amount of waste that reaches final disposal. This not only reduces pressure on sanitary landfills and landfills, but also slows the extraction of raw materials, minimizing the impact on ecosystems and biodiversity. In addition, by reducing the generation of waste and the use of new materials, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, contributing to mitigate global climate change.
• Social inclusion: The circular economy promotes the integration of old informal recuperators in the waste management system, providing them with opportunities to formalize their work and improve their working conditions. This not only dignifies their work, but also allows them to access better income, social security and training, transforming waste recovery into a safer and sustainable activity.
• It is a more efficient process in energy terms: Recycling and reuse processes usually require less energy than the production of goods from primary resources. For example, the manufacture of recycled aluminum consumes up to 95% less energy compared to production from bauxite. Similarly, plastic and glass recycling can significantly reduce energy consumption in the industry, reducing the demand for fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Generates more resilient cities: The circular economy not only contributes to the mitigation of climate change, but also strengthens the adaptation of the most vulnerable communities. By decreasing the amount of waste that reaches final disposal, various environmental and health risks are reduced that affect nearby populations. First, waste reduction decreases the proliferation of vectors such as rodents and insects, which can transmit diseases, thus improving public health. In addition, it avoids the accumulation of volatile waste that can obstruct drains and rain systems, reducing the risk of flooding and flooding in times of heavy rains.

• Biogas and compost production from organic waste.
• Programs Circular fashion for the reuse or recycling of clothing.
• Use of Returnable containers.
• Wooden recycling for the creation of banks in squares.
• Recycling out of use for elaboration of new products.
• Bioplastic development from corn starch or fruit shells, which are compostable and reduce plastic pollution.
• Use of Recycled materials in constructionsuch as cement from ecological rubble or bricks made with recycled plastics.

Now that you know what the circular economy is, you may be interested in this article about sustainable cities: what are, characteristics and examples.

If you want to read more articles similar to Circular economy: what is, benefits and exampleswe recommend that you enter our environmental education category.