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What’s the big deal about circular economies?

What is a circular economy?
I talk about circular economies, and how great they are, a LOT! So what is so great about the concept of a circular economy, and why is it so important when it comes to sustainability?

A circular economy closes the industrial loop – by continually and effectively using existing resources, we eliminate waste, reduce emissions and allow our planet’s natural systems to regenerate. In a nutshell, they’re an awesome contributor to a more sustainable future for our planet.

According to circular economy experts, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, there are three essential elements to creating a circular economy:
  1. Design out waste and pollution
  2. Keep products and materials in use
  3. Regenerate natural systems

 

How is it different to what happens at the moment?

Most of what we create at the moment is a ‘linear’ model – we take from the earth’s resources, we make with it, then we dispose of it. And our planet’s finite resources cannot support this model forever.


How could circular economies benefit the planet?
Two big benefits of using circular economies? By 2040 we could reduce greenhouse by 25% and have 80% less plastic leakage into the ocean.


 

How is Happy Planet Toys part of a circular economy?

Happy Planet Toys closed loop

If we look back at the three essential elements to creating a circular economy, here’s how we do it:

  1. We design out waste and pollution by using recycled milk bottles, instead of new plastic, for our toys.

  2. We keep materials in use – by using recycled milk bottles, we’re already keeping plastic that could otherwise end up in landfill, in use. Plus because our toys are recyclable, they can be re-made into something else many more times.

  3. We support the regeneration of natural systems – by using plastic waste, we’re already reducing the amount of plastic heading to landfill, hopefully over time giving our planet the chance to breathe. We also give back to charities and organisations who are doing great things for our environment and for the health of our oceans, like our friends at The Dolphin Research Institute.

We really encourage you to check our products and businesses that prioritise being circular, because, as you can see, they’re a pretty good way to look after our planet’s future.