What is a Circular Economy?

Have you ever wondered what is the circular economy? Read on to learn more about this important sustainability concept.  

• What is the circular economy? 
• What are the benefits of a circular economy? 
• How can you contribute to a circular economy? 

 What is the circular economy? 

A circular economy is one where materials are used for as long as possible. Circular economy is the opposite of linear economy, where materials are used and then discarded. Recycling is one example of a circular economy. By recycling materials instead of sending them to a landfill, those materials have a longer lifespan and can be used again in different forms. Reuse or secondhand shopping is another example of circular economy. Items that are sold in reuse stores like EcoBuilding Bargains can be used again and again instead of being wasted.  

What are the benefits of a circular economy? 

Keeping materials out of the waste stream is a key factor to achieving sustainability. Across the country, landfills are filling up. Because of this, it is critically important to reduce how much waste enters the waste stream. Reusing items also helps the planet by reducing the demand for new materials, which in turn reduces the need to use natural resources. In this way, promoting a circular economy can lead to a reduction in intensive processes that harvest natural resources, such as mining and deforestation. Food systems are also a key part of a circular economy. Food donation, composting, and other circular solutions prevent food waste from entering landfills while also providing value to communities and agriculture. Learn more about CET’s food waste efforts at this link.  

How can you contribute to a circular economy?  

One of the best ways to contribute to a circular economy is to donate your unused materials instead of throwing them away. Check out local thrift stores or charities to donate your clothes, and give away unwanted household items to your neighbors via your local Buy Nothing group. EcoBuilding Bargains, the largest reuse store in New England, provides a sustainable outlet for your salvaged or unused materials. We accept donations of furniture, kitchen items, bathroom items, doors, windows, building materials, and lighting throughout the Northeast Corridor. Learn more about donating to EcoBuilding Bargains here [Will link to donation blog post when it is posted]. For more information about reducing waste, visit the EcoBuilding Bargains and CET blogs.