The circular economy aims to redesign the traditional approach to economics, directing it towards a sustainable and regenerative model. It involves using materials and resources efficiently, minimizing waste, and maximizing their value throughout their entire lifecycle. This concept is based on creating an economic system that mimics natural processes, where materials are continuously reused and recycled rather than being exploited and disposed of.
The conceptual origin of the circular economy dates back to various authors and contributions over time. Kenneth E. Boulding was among the first to consider Earth as a closed system and introduced the concept of the "spaceship economy" in contrast to the "cowboy economy". According to this theory, planet Earth must be seen as a kind of spaceship, where resources are limited both in terms of use and waste disposal, in contrast to the unlimited space the cowboy can roam. Therefore, we must adopt an approach similar to that of a closed ecosystem, constantly seeking to regenerate the materials used and to rely as little as possible on external resources for energy.
William McDonough and Michael Braungart have criticized the traditional recycling system and proposed an approach called "Cradle to Cradle", which aims to design products so that they can be fully reused or recycled without any loss of quality. Gunter Pauli has promoted the idea of an economy based on available resources, drawing inspiration from nature and aiming to reduce pollution and create jobs through material recovery and reuse.
The definition of the circular economy provided by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a leading non-profit organization in the field, emphasizes that it is a planned economic system aimed at reusing materials in subsequent production cycles, minimizing waste, and integrating economic activities and environmental well-being in a sustainable manner. In a circular economy, material flows are of two types: biological, which can be reintegrated into the biosphere, and technical, destined to be valorized without entering the biosphere. In summary, the circular economy aims to create a system in which economic activity is in harmony with the environment, enabling continuous regeneration of resources and reducing environmental impact.
To advance towards a circular economy, the MacArthur Foundation outlines fundamental principles for radically transforming our current economic system by turning waste and unused materials into an economic, social, and environmental opportunity.
- Preserve and enhance natural capital: This involves managing limited resources and balancing the flow of renewable resources. The system must judiciously decide which resources to use when necessary and prioritize processes and technologies that utilize renewable resources, thus maintaining a balance in their usage.
- Maximize resource utilization through recycling: This involves the circulation of products, components, and materials of high value in both biological and technical cycles. In biological cycles, renewable nutrients should be reintegrated into the biosphere to promote the creation of new raw materials. In technical cycles, non-renewable materials should be designed to circulate for as long as possible, not only through recycling but also through refurbishment and regeneration.
- Identifying and eliminating negative externalities: This involves identifying and eliminating harmful consequences that could compromise the effectiveness of the system. It is crucial to reduce environmental damage and prevent negative externalities such as air and water pollution, as well as the release of toxic substances into the environment.
These principles provide guidance for promoting a circular economy capable of creating value and sustainability through efficient and responsible use of resources.
Plastic has become an increasingly serious problem, with only 9% of it recycled, 12% incinerated, and the remainder ending up in landfills or natural environments. This dispersion has led to the formation of microplastics, plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, derived both directly from human activities such as the use of cosmetics or washing synthetic fabrics, and from the fragmentation of larger plastic objects exposed to weathering. Microplastics pose a threat to human health, as they can be ingested through contaminated food or inhaled through atmospheric particulate. They have been found in various areas of the planet, especially in marine ecosystems, where marine organisms accidentally ingest them while filtering water.
Every year, at least 8 million tons of plastic end up in the oceans, and if this trend is not stopped immediately, it is estimated that by 2050 there could be more plastic than fish. Microplastics can concentrate pollutants and harmful chemical agents, the impact of which on human health is still poorly understood but potentially harmful.
The challenges related to the production, consumption, and disposal of plastic can become opportunities for the European Union and the continent's industry. Addressing this issue through the development of a plan for a circular economy, involving the entire value chain, can promote economic growth, job creation, and innovation. Additionally, it can strengthen Europe's leadership position in the sector and contribute to the transition towards a low CO2 emissions economy, while ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for citizens.
In December 2015, the European Commission adopted an action plan for the circular economy, identifying plastic as a priority and committing to develop a comprehensive strategy to address challenges related to plastics throughout their entire value chain and lifecycle. In 2017, it reaffirmed the goal of focusing on the responsible production and use of plastic, with the aim of making all plastic packaging recyclable by 2030.
A growing movement that is challenging the foundations of our current economic and social system. Thanks to increased attention from scholars and the emergence of aware consumer groups, environmental issues are becoming increasingly relevant in everyday life, assuming a fundamental role in the future global scenario.
In this context, it becomes essential to develop new models and practices, such as transitioning to a circular economy. This transition requires commitment from businesses, which can be initially supported by governmental interventions and initiatives that promote such an approach.
The circular economy does not focus on reducing energy consumption or productivity, but rather on the smarter and more efficient use of available resources. This implies adopting more sustainable business production models, increasing responsibility and awareness from both producers and consumers, as well as the use of renewable technologies and materials, supported by appropriate policies and tools.
It is evident that there is a need to abandon the current linear economic system, as the planet cannot continue to sustain the growth model that has characterized the last 150 years. Therefore, it is crucial to intervene not only on regulations but especially on people's mindset, promoting targeted educational programs that foster understanding of the benefits and potential of the circular economy, and induce a change in habits and behaviors.