A report from the Circle Economy, group supported by the UN Environment, points out that just 9% of the global economy is circular, or that means that the planet reuses less than 10% the 92,8 billion tons of minerals, fossil fuels, metals and biomass used every year in production processes. Released in January at the World Economic Forum, in Davos, The document highlights the potential of reuse and recycling to combat climate change and comply with the Paris Agreement.
What is Circular Economy?
A circular economy is a regenerative system, where resource consumption and waste, emissions and energy loss are minimized by deceleration and shortening of production cycles. This model can be achieved by maintenance practices, repair, reuse, remanufacturing, recycling, long lasting design and makeovers.
The research highlights the vast opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the application of circular principles — especially reuse, remanufacturing and recycling — in key sectors, like construction. The analysis, although, points out that most governments do not consider circular economy measures in their policies aimed at the Paris Agreement and the goal of containing global warming, the maximum as possible, a 1,5 ºC.
Climate change and the use of materials are closely linked. A Circle Economy calculates that 62% of greenhouse gas emissions (excluding emissions generated by land use and forestry) are released into the atmosphere during extraction, processing and manufacturing goods to meet the needs of society. Only 38% of emissions are dispersed in the delivery and use of products and services.
The global use of materials is growing. It has more than tripled since 1970 and could double again until 2050 no actions to contain the phenomenon, according to the UN International Resource Panel.
"One World (hottest in) 1,5 ºC can only be a circular world. The recycling, greater resource efficiency and circular business models provide a huge window to reduce emissions. A systematic approach to applying these strategies would tip the balance in the battle against global warming.”, says the CEO of Circle Economy, Harald Friedl.
“Governments' climate change strategies have focused on renewable energy, in energy efficiency and in avoiding deforestation, but they ignored the vast potential of the circular economy.. They should redesign supply chains back there, in the wells, fields, mines and quarries, where is the origin of our resources, so that we consume less raw materials. This will not only reduce emissions, as well as driving growth, making economies more efficient.”
The report calls on governments to act to move from a linear economy based on the “extract-transform-discard” paradigm to a circular economy that maximizes the use of existing resources. This more sustainable system also reduces dependence on new raw materials and minimizes waste. The publication argues that innovation to extend the lifespan of existing resources is capable of reducing emissions as well as reducing social inequality and fostering low-carbon growth.
Access the full report clicking here.
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