(Written By: Adaeze.C Nwahiri)
The idea of a circular economy shines optimism in a world where inequality and environmental degradation are pressing concerns. Adopting a circular economic model encourages recycling, repair, and reuse instead of the traditional linear "take-make-dispose" strategy will truly help our quest for sustainability. This article will scrutinize the pivotal role of the circular economy in advancing the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and explore its potential to catalyze positive transformation worldwide.
For decades the conventional linear economy has translated to excessive consumption and waste generation. Simultaneously, this has led to environmental degradation, resource loss, and growing societal inequalities. This linear model jeopardizes the welfare of the current and future generations by exacerbating climate change and a continuous cycle of waste production and environmental destruction.
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The European Union (EU 2021) estimates that by 2050, the total amount of resources needed will be greater than the capacity of three Earths if current resource extraction continues. Transitioning from a linear 'take-make-dispose' model to a carbon-neutral, environmentally sustainable, toxic-free, fully circular economy by 2050 is essential to address concerns about climate change and limited resources.
Thus, the circular economy is a regenerative system created to reduce waste and increase resource efficiency. Its fundamental idea is "closing the loop," which refers to reusing, remanufacturing, and recycling resources, goods, and materials to prolong their lifespan. The circular economy provides a route to sustainable development that is both financially feasible and environmentally sound by severing the link between economic expansion and resource use.
For a rigid and sustainable result, there is a need for alignment between the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing a holistic framework for addressing interconnected global challenges. Let's explore some key ways in which the circular economy contributes to the achievement of some SDGs:
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Firstly, SDG 7 deals with Affordable and Clean Energy. With the circular economy, there is a need to promote energy efficiency and longevity of products (appliances), adoption of renewable energy sources, low carbon footprint, etc. Producers should ensure that their products have higher durability and low carbon emissions.
Secondly, aligning circular economy with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production implies promoting resource efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable consumption, and production patterns, essential for achieving SDG 12 targets. For example, one of the EU action plans is cloth production from 100% recycled fabric (EU 2021). Also, as an individual, you can help by using recycled materials, buying second-hand clothing and electrical appliances instead of new ones, repairing your appliances instead of disposing and buying a new one. On the other hand, the government can also help by ensuring that the price for gadget repair is affordable and the most attractive option than buying a new one.
Lastly, SDG 15 deals with Life on Land. Incorporating circular economy includes initiatives such as sustainable forestry, regenerative agriculture, and ecosystem restoration to ensure biodiversity conservation and land restoration efforts under SDG 15.
In conclusion, the circular economy has numerous economic benefits in addition to environmental ones. Through innovation, increased resource productivity, and the development of new markets for recycled materials, the circular economy reduces its environmental impact and promotes economic growth. Additionally, the adoption of circular business models fosters entrepreneurship, the creation of jobs, and inclusive economic growth, especially in industries like sustainable manufacturing, recycling, and renewable energy.
The shift to a circular economy is not without difficulties, notwithstanding its potential. Its widespread adoption is hampered by obstacles like poor infrastructure, low consumer awareness, and legislative restrictions. These difficulties do, however, offer chances for creativity, teamwork, and policy change. Governments, corporations, individuals, and civil society organizations must collaborate to remove obstacles and realize the circular economy's full potential. Our organization, Let's Sustain, stands as a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, aiming to raise awareness and educate individuals worldwide about the importance of preserving our planet. Together we close the gap and start along the road to a rich and sustainable future for coming generations.
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