Nanjiba Nur
Introduction
Our planet is going through some grand challenges; climate change is one of them, and perhaps the root of many other potential environmental problems. As per the Paris agreement, nations need to strive to control the global temperature rise to 2oC compared to the pre-industrial temperature. Otherwise, the climate change consequences can be devastating. Many tropical countries could go vanished under the sea and there could be no stopping of natural disasters. Circular economy is deemed to be an effective approach to tackle climate change as per the researchers. Circular economy is a strategy to reduce resource consumption and could pave the way for a net-zero economy which is due by 2050 to reach the climate goals. This article briefs about the circular economy and how we can shift to sustainable consumption to save the planet.
Circular Economy and Sustainable Consumption
The current linear model of production and consumption, known as the take-make-dispose model, has resulted in significant environmental degradation, particularly with regard to climate change. To mitigate the effects of climate change and move towards a sustainable future, a new model of production and consumption called the circular economy has been gaining traction. A circular economy is an economic system that is restorative and regenerative by design. It aims to keep products, components, and materials at their highest value and utility at all times, while minimizing waste and pollution. It is based on three principles: designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.
The circular economy is seen as a promising solution to the challenges posed by climate change. By shifting to a circular economy, we can reduce the environmental impacts of production and consumption, decrease our reliance on finite resources, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
One of the key ways in which a circular economy can help tackle climate change is by reducing the carbon footprint of products and services. This can be achieved through strategies such as:
Designing for circularity: Products can be designed to last longer, be repairable, and have components that can be reused or recycled.
Implementing circular business models: Companies can shift from a linear business model to a circular one, where products are leased, repaired, or remanufactured rather than being sold outright.
Adopting sustainable production methods: Manufacturers can reduce their carbon footprint by using renewable energy sources, optimizing production processes, and using recycled materials.
Another way in which the circular economy can help tackle climate change is by reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency. By keeping products and materials in use for longer, we can reduce the need for new products to be manufactured, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, by recycling and reusing materials, we can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators, which are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, the circular economy can also help restore natural systems that have been damaged by climate change. By regenerating natural systems such as forests, wetlands, and oceans, we can increase carbon sequestration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Circular Fashion
The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions and waste. The current model of production and consumption, which is linear and based on fast fashion, results in significant environmental degradation and social injustice. However, there is a growing movement towards circular fashion, which aims to create a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry.
Circular fashion is a holistic approach to fashion design, production, and consumption that seeks to eliminate waste and reduce the industry’s impact on the environment. It is based on three principles: designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.
The first principle of circular fashion is designing out waste and pollution. This means creating products that are durable, repairable, and recyclable. Designers can use sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and biodegradable fibers. They can also incorporate circular design principles such as modularity, which allows different components of a garment to be easily replaced or repaired.
The second principle of circular fashion is keeping products and materials in use. This involves extending the life of products and materials through strategies such as reuse, repair, and recycling. Brands can implement take-back schemes, where customers can return their used products to be repaired or recycled. They can also partner with resale platforms, which enable customers to resell their used items to new owners.
The third principle of circular fashion is regenerating natural systems. This involves restoring ecosystems that have been damaged by fashion industry practices, such as deforestation and pollution. Brands can use sustainable and regenerative farming practices, such as regenerative agriculture, to reduce the impact of their supply chains on the environment.
Circular fashion has several benefits for the environment, society, and the economy. First, it reduces the carbon footprint of the fashion industry. By creating durable and repairable products, brands can reduce the amount of waste generated by the industry. By using sustainable materials and reducing the need for new production, brands can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Second, circular fashion promotes resource efficiency and reduces the industry’s reliance on finite resources. By keeping materials and products in use for longer, brands can reduce the need for Top of Form Bottom of Form.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the circular economy is a promising solution to the challenges posed by climate change. By shifting to a circular economy, we can reduce the carbon footprint of products and services, promote resource efficiency, and restore natural systems. The transition to a circular economy will require collaboration between governments, businesses, and consumers, as well as a fundamental shift in our attitudes towards consumption and waste. However, the benefits to the environment, society, and the economy make it a worthwhile endeavor.
Major References:
- https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/articles/the-trends-and-trailblazers-creating-a-circular-economy-for-fashion
- https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview
