What is Circular Economy?
Circular economy is a more efficient way to use our resources. It's a social system where materials are not thrown away, but maintained, shared, repaired, refurbished and remanufactured for as long as possible.
David Suzuki Foundation said "In essence, a circular economy is about ensuring that we live within Earth’s finite limits — the limits within which today’s needs can be met without sacrificing the ability of future generations, including future generations of wildlife, to have their needs met."
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation states that circular economy is based on three principles
1. Eliminate waste and pollution
2. Circulate products and materials at their highest value
3. Regenerate nature
How does the circular economy work?
The flow of materials are divided between technical and biological cycles.
Technical cycles are when items that aren't biodegradable can reused, repaired, remanufactured and lastly, recycled. This cycle is best when designs have been made modular in order to create a circular cycle.
Biological cycles is through the process of composting or fermenting and regenerating the soil to ensure a new cycle of growth. Anything that is biodegradable falls into this category like food, wood, cotton even chipboard if it's processed correctly.
If you have 10 minutes to spare, watch Ellen MacArthur talk about the basics of circular economy. She explains it way better than I can, and her voice is lovely!
How Does This Link To The Sweet Pea Shop?
Shopping secondhand is a perfect way to be involved in circular economy. It is an environmentally-friendly alternative to buying new items, as it reduces waste and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and shipping new goods.
The Sweet Pea Shop is here to create an easier way to buy and sell your preloved children's clothing and gear. We want to keep clothing out of landfills... and basements 😁 and pass it along to other cuties to enjoy.
Check out our Port Hope Mayor Hankivsky's shoutout to our shop and to the impact of circular economy here: Mayors Corner - Friday May 12, 2023
You can come shop in-store at 📍24 Ontario St. Port Hope, ON or shop online at thesweetpeashop.ca
Sources:
What Is Circular Economy from The Ellen MacArthur Foundation