Circular economy - reuse/repurpose

Often products are designed for convenience without considering the waste they produce. In a circular economy, products are designed so they can be reused and repurposed as new products.

A linear economy is when manufacturers take a raw material, for example, oil, make something with it, (sandwich baggies), consumers use the product (in lunches) and dispose of it (throw it in the garbage).

In a circular economy, manufacturers take a raw material that is designed to be recovered (tin) or incorporate the disposal into their product design, make something (bento box), consumers use it (in lunches) and reuse it repeatedly (indefinitely or recycle it when it has reached the end of its useful life).

Did you know you can get a new (to you) bike or donate a bike that you no longer need at the Recycle Depot? This is a great example of circular economy principles in action.

Learn about bike sales

Reduce your waste and rethink your buying habits. By following some of the tips below you can create long-term savings and environmental impacts that will benefit the world around you.

• Purchase products without packaging such as produce not wrapped in plastic or by using reusable mugs, straws and cutlery
• Refuse packaging you don't need like napkins, flyers and single-use bags
• Repair products instead of disposing of them such as components on your dishwasher instead of buying a whole new appliance
• Borrow or rent (instead of owning) equipment that you don't use very often maybe it's a sewing machine or borrowing a specialized cake pan
• Buy quality over quantity for example, good quality clothes last longer instead of fast-fashion

Book a presentation to learn more