The circular economy has emerged as a powerful framework for addressing environmental challenges while driving economic growth. As we venture into 2023, it is crucial to explore the current market landscape of circular economy. From innovative startups to global corporations, let's delve into the dynamic landscape of the circular economy market.
The Rise of Circular Economy Disruptors
Startups Pioneering Innovation:
Numerous startups have been at the forefront of circular economy innovation. Companies like Too Good To Go and OLIO are tackling food waste through digital platforms, while TerraCycle is revolutionising recycling by offering waste collection and up-cycling solutions. These disruptors reshape industries, drive sustainability, and challenge traditional business models.Sharing Economy Platforms:
The sharing economy has gained significant traction within the circular economy landscape. Companies like Airbnb and Zipcar have disrupted traditional ownership models, promoting the efficient use of resources. By facilitating the sharing and reuse of assets, these platforms contribute to waste reduction and resource optimisation.Sustainable Fashion Brands:
The fashion industry is witnessing a wave of sustainable brands that embrace circular economy principles. Companies like Patagonia and Stella McCartney lead the charge by prioritising ethical sourcing, recycling programs, and promoting durable and repairable products. These disruptors are reshaping the fashion industry and challenging the wasteful fast fashion culture.
Industry Leaders Embracing Circular Economy Principles
A global consumer goods company, Unilever has become a frontrunner in embracing circular economy principles. Through its Sustainable Living Plan, the company aims to achieve 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025. Unilever's commitment to circularity extends to its entire value chain, from responsible sourcing to reducing waste generation.
Interface, a global leader in commercial flooring, has transformed its business model to embrace circular economy principles. The company aims to achieve a fully circular economy by 2030, focusing on recycling and using recycled materials in its products. Interface demonstrates that circularity can drive innovation, profitability, and sustainability.
How can Human help?
We collaborate with founders, executives and teams to help them to map, identify, design and test new sustainability innovations. We see beyond just the technology and focus on long-lasting results. We look at culture, embedding continual capability up-skilling, innovation systems and leading for change.
