The circular economy is a hot topic at the moment, and a lot of information is available online on the subject. But this information is often made up of misconceptions or false statements. Read on to find out what is true and what isn't, as we unwind all the preconceived ideas around this topic.
First of all, here’s a reminder of what the circular economy is:
According to the definition provided by the French Ministry of Sustainable Development, "the circular economy is an economic concept in the field of sustainable development, and its objective is to produce goods and services while limiting the use and waste of raw materials, water and energy sources. The concept revolves around deploying a new, circular rather than linear economy based on a ‘closing the loop’ principle as regards to products, services, waste, materials, water and energy."
Preconceived ideas about the circular economy:
“Circular economy” is just a trendy way to talk about recycling:
False – The “circular economy” is not just an expression that aims to encompass recycling and all things pro sustainable development. The idea extends further than that. The circular economy represents a change in the business model. The principle behind the concept is to encourage people and companies to reuse existing materials and resources rather than new ones. It includes selling refurbished products.
The principle behind the circular economy reduces company turnover and is costly to implement:
False – If you’re a company, the circular economy model will not lose you turnover; it will provide you with new prospects for growth over the long term. The circular economy will help you stand out on the market thanks to innovations.
Sustainable products reduce production costs because you’ll be reusing existing raw materials. Furthermore, displaying responsible values to your customers will promote trust and increase their loyalty.
Circular economy is the opposite of linear economy:
True – The linear model follows a produce-consume-throw approach. The circular economy, on the other hand, requires us to rethink the linear economic model, which generates waste. To switch to a circular economy that promotes waste management and recycling, the thought process around waste generation is streamlined into every production stage, right up to final product consumption.
9% of the global economy is circular.
True – This statement is contained in the report released by UN-backed group Circle Economy. And actually, 9% isn't that much. We all have a role to play in the way we produce waste.
The circular economy undermines economic growth
False – The circular economy creates jobs. This economy also increases company sustainability over the long term, seeing as companies will be in a position to adapt rapidly to contemporary challenges and environmental issues. In addition, it’s a good idea to get a head start in implementing waste management solutions, because legislation in the area keeps getting more and more dense.
Armor Office Printing can help make your print fleet more eco-friendly
True – We offer eco-friendly printing alternatives. We collect company printer cartridges free of charge, and then reuse them to put them back on the market. We transform cartridges that cannot be reused into second-hand objects, including office equipment.
