Introduction

For decades, the economy has been built on making, marketing and selling products that aren’t designed to be taken apart, repaired, upgraded or reused.

Often, once the customer has finished using a product, they throw it away and it goes into landfill.

But in nature, there is balance. Plants and animals live, then die and their remains help to feed other animals and plants. This is a circular system - one where waste is reused and helps create new life - and we can apply these ideas to our economy.

What is the circular economy?

In a circular economy:

  • waste is reused for new purposes
  • products are designed to be replaced, reused or repurposed
  • new ways of doing business are explored. For example, products that were once purchased then discarded might now be profitably hired or shared

Locally, nationally and internationally, circular economy ideas are being built into major environmental strategies and sustainable development plans.

How does a circular economy work?

Learn more about the circular economy concept.

What's the CEN?

  • Student presenting at a sustainability conference.

    About us

    Learn about who we are and how we can support you.

    Learn more
  • Two people working with a 3D printer

    Access our expertise

    Developing practical solutions to your current challenges.

    Get support
  • Single use plastic pellets ready to be reused

    Circular Economy research

    Powerful examples of how we are impacting the world around us.

    Go to research