In a circular economy materials are kept in use for as long as possible, reducing the need for new resources and minimising environmental impacts from extraction to disposal. This approach not only benefits the environment but also makes business sense.
We explore how a circular economy could open new markets with untapped growth potential. Higher resource productivity could also mean higher profits, as well as protecting businesses from supply chain risks. This would help them meet their climate commitments at the same time, and in a world where consumers increasingly prefer products from sustainable businesses, this may offer circular businesses a competitive edge.
In this visual report, we outline five reasons why a circular economy is good for business, and propose three actions for the government to deliver these benefits.
Heather Plumpton, Emily Carr and Libby Peake