Circular systems employ reuse, sharing, repair, refurbishment, re-manufacturing and recycling to create a close-loop system, minimising the use of resource inputs and the creation of waste, pollution and carbon emissions.

Business, governments and citizens around the world increasingly recognise the challenges caused by our “take-make-dispose” approach to production and consumption. In 2019, over 92 billion tonnes of materials were extracted and processed, contributing to about half of global CO2 emissions. The resulting waste – including plastics, textiles, food, electronics and more – is taking its toll on the environment and human health.

The circular economy, which promotes the elimination of waste and the continual safe use of natural resources, offers an alternative that can yield up to $4.5 trillion in economic benefits to 2030.

Achieving this transition requires unprecedented collaboration given that today, only 8.6% of the world is circular. 

With respect to recycling, rates in the UK are worse than they were five years ago, after the percentage of waste being collected fell despite pledges to make the system simpler for households.  Figures from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) show that the amount of household rubbish being recycled dropped from 45.2 per cent in 2017 to 44.7 per cent in 2018.

We have a long way to go but Crystal Associates can support.Find out more here