Circular economy
A circular economy
is an economic model of production and consumption that includes activities such as conversion of usable items, repairing things, sharing, donating things we no longer need, and recycling existing products, items and resources for as long as possible to create added value.
The goal, instead of constantly producing new items and prematurely discarding still usable items, is to use what is already available to us more efficiently and for a longer time, to use the items in a multi-purpose manner, to convert them and to recycle them ultimately.
This extends the life-cycle of the product while reducing waste. There are significant savings for the end consumer, that is, for all citizens.
The currently prevalent linear model in which products are thrown away even while still having usable value to be replaced by a new model (clothing, consumer electronics, cell phones, kitchenware) or disposed of after use is unsustainable. In addition, it requires large investments of energy, time and money, production of low-quality and low-cost materials, cheap labor and high energy and resource consumption. A large proportion of such products are imported from third countries, which have significantly lower environmental standards than the European Union. Therefore, in the new rules proposal, the European Parliament adopts new rules regarding the practice of the individual manufacturer. ("planned product obsolescence").
Moving to a circular economy seeks to ensure sustainable and efficient management of resources that are cost-effective and at the same time protect the environment and nature. These support the principles of sustainability.
Successful transition to this model requires changes in the understanding of social values, changing consumer habits and understanding why such a model is much better for both, the end consumer and society as a whole. We all want quality, durable and affordable products that last, protect the environment and health.
With thoughtful adjustments throughout the production process, from the choice of materials, design, functionality, from production techniques and devising new techniques for turning waste into resources, it is possible to move to a circular economy model. Changing habits and awareness of consumer behavior is extremely important in this process.
To this end, waste management policy contributes to supporting the reduction of waste generation through the development of a functional waste management system, which aims to use waste as a valuable resource.
In circular economy systems, the added value of the product is retained for as long as possible and no waste is generated. Resources are retained in the economy after the end of the product's useful life-cyclus in order to be used productively and thus create new value.
Increasing the connection between economic growth, the use of resources and its effects opens the possibility of sustainable growth. Strengthening efforts to increase resource productivity will go hand in hand with existing EU policy goals such as reducing carbon dioxide emissions, increasing energy efficiency, securing access to raw materials, while reducing environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions.