The Coggin Group logo

What Exactly is the Circular Economy? Unraveling the Sustainable Concept

Sam Coggin • July 1, 2023

Welcome to the world of the circular economy, a new model that's reshaping how we view goods and services. This approach could be the key to striking a balance between our needs and our planet's health.


What Exactly is the Circular Economy?


In the bustling world of market economies, we're used to a "buy-use-discard" system, which leans heavily on mass production. The circular economy challenges this by promoting sharing, reusing, repairing, and recycling. Here, when a product ends its life, its materials are repurposed for new beginnings.


Watch this video created by the Ellen Macarthur Foundation back in 2020 with Ellen MacArthur and Joe Iles talking through the various loops on the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's "butterfly diagram".

Why Should We Care?


  1. Planet-Friendly Approach: Adopting this model can reduce the strain on our natural resources, minimise environmental damage, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
  2. Conserving Resources: The word economy revolves around the constant demand for raw materials. Recycling through a circular system reduces this pressure, stabilising our national economy and reducing import reliance.
  3. Financial Gains: Embracing the circular economy can lead to new business opportunities, encourage innovation, and save money for consumers.


The European Union Takes the Lead


The EU recognises the potential of the circular economy in influencing the national economy and market economies worldwide. They've been introducing initiatives to champion sustainable product designs and reduce waste, aiming for a fully circular system by 2050.


Spotlight: Office Furniture


Consider an office revamp. Usually, old furniture gets discarded. But companies today are leaning into the circular model, opting to reuse, refurbish or recycle such items, which not only minimises waste but also aids local small business community.


A Global Perspective


With a growing global awareness, the circular economy is about more than just recycling. It's about changing the mass production mindset of market economies. Modern technology, like AI and blockchain, aids this transition, helping to trace products throughout their life cycle, ensuring they contribute positively to the world economy.


Joining the Movement: Countries and Corporates


Various countries and leading corporations are integrating the circular economy into their operations. For instance, Google has ambitious plans aligned with carbon-neutral goals for 2030.


Businesses, Individuals, and Their Role


Within this economy, businesses adapt by leasing goods and services instead of selling them, like car-sharing or furniture renting. For individuals, this means making sustainable choices and supporting companies that prioritise circularity.


Facing the Challenges


Like any significant shift, transitioning to a circular economy in market economies poses challenges. Established systems often rely on linear, mass production models. To embrace circularity, infrastructural, technological, and business model changes are vital.


Charting the Path Forward


The momentum towards a circular economy in the national and world economy is evident. While obstacles exist, the promise of a sustainable future where economic growth and environmental responsibility coexist is tantalising.


In the circular economy, every product is given an opportunity for rebirth.

Contact Us

Why Sustainability is the Future of Office Fit-Outs

By Ida Gorecka • November 19, 2024
As a business leader or office manager, you recognise that creating an inspiring workspace goes beyond just aesthetics. With the increasing emphasis on sustainability, your choice of office fit-out can largely influence not only your brand image but also the environment. Both clients and employees are drawn to companies that prioritise eco-friendly practices. By integrating sustainable solutions, such as second-hand furniture and recycled materials, into your office design, you can demonstrate your commitment to a greener future while also enhancing employee well-being and productivity.

Reducing Waste During Office Moves: How Recycling Furniture Helps

By Ida Gorecka • November 12, 2024
Office relocations can be difficult, and one of the biggest hurdles is what to do with unwanted furniture. Each move can result in heaps of discarded desks, chairs, and storage units, items that are often still in good condition. This waste not only adds to disposal costs but also fuels the growing problem of landfill waste. However, there’s a more sustainable solution that not only eases your moving process but also enhances your corporate responsibility: recycling office furniture. Here’s how choosing this approach can transform your office move into an opportunity for both efficiency and sustainability .

Red Flags: When Office Furniture is Beyond Repair

By Ida Gorecka • November 7, 2024
Creating a productive and professional office environment hinges on the quality and condition of your office furniture. Whether it's a boardroom desk or a standard task chair, the furniture you choose impacts the atmosphere, employee comfort, and overall efficiency. But recognising when your furniture has passed the point of repair is an important part of effective facilities or business management. In this guide, we'll break down what to look for, how to handle worn materials, and why smart refurbishment decisions can save both money and the environment. Need help assessing the state of your current office setup? Contact us for a consultation to evaluate your furniture and discuss sustainable alternatives.
Share by: