As the economy shifts from linear to circular, we are presented with an opportunity. If implemented with the planet and people in mind, the circular economy can help us create a safe and just space for all—addressing not only environmental challenges but also social ones.
Yet while environmental considerations are at the core of the circular economy, social aspects have largely been underexplored. That's because the circular economy is a resource-based framework primarily seeking to prevent further environmental degradation.
Since our current system is deeply rooted in the exploitation of both the planet and people—with some of us experiencing its negative impacts more than others—, any attempt to bring about change must match environmental goals with social ambitions.
SEIZING THE OPPORTUNITY FOR CHANGE
If a safe and just space for all is the goal, how can we seize the opportunities the circular economy presents?
At Circle Economy, we want to better understand how circular principles can drive positive social change. Considering social injustices in the current economic system, we research social blindspots of circular strategies and explore how the circular economy can create inclusive and decent work. We work closely with businesses, cities, nations and civil societies to help them implement circular business models that put human wellbeing at the centre.
We believe we must adopt a more holistic lens to the circular economy so that all humans can thrive on a healthy planet. This is an opportunity we cannot fail to take.
The circular transition needs to be positive for all of us. For this we need foresight, awareness and education. The circular economy brings an opportunity to promote decent jobs, secure livelihoods and inclusive labour markets. But to make these opportunities a reality, the social impact of the circular economy needs to be understood and prioritised. – Esther Goodwin Brown, Circular Jobs Initiative Lead at Circle Economy
We need a new economic system that allows both people and the planet to thrive, one that is based on a shared understanding of our interconnectedness. We are all part of one system, interdependent on each other, and dependent upon nature. To bring this mindset shift to life, we must design circular economic models that are deeply transformative, embracing a holistic way of thinking and new forms of collaboration. - Ilektra Kouloumpi, Senior Cities Strategist - Thriving Cities Lead
Report
Avoiding blindspots: Promoting circular and fair business models
This report provides recommendations for addressing the social, governance, market and environmental blindspots of circular business models.
Coming soon, a whitepaper on the circular economy's potential to create both social, ecological and economic prosperity. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified when it launches.
Over the past decade, sustained investment in technological and material innovation has accelerated the transition to a circular economy. But to further scale its positive impact, we now need to embrace social innovations that make the circular economy relevant to our daily lives, jobs and education. Only if technological and social innovations go hand in hand, can we drive real change. – Birgitta Kramer, Programme Manager Circular Economy at Goldschmeding Foundation
work in the circular economy
As we transition to a circular economy, the world of work changes. To ensure a positive transition to circularity for all workers, our Circular Jobs Initiative conducts research on the relationship between labour markets and the circular economy.
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