Kiertotyö

Kiertotyö, also known as circular economy or circular business model, is an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources. It is based on the principles of designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. The concept was first introduced by the Dutch economist and environmentalist Willem Jan Rotmans in the 1990s.

In a kiertotyö, products are designed to be durable, repairable, and recyclable. Businesses are encouraged to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, from raw material extraction to disposal. This includes considering the environmental impact of their operations and finding ways to minimize it.

The circular economy is often contrasted with the traditional linear economy, where resources are extracted, processed, and then discarded. In the linear model, waste is a byproduct of production and consumption, leading to environmental degradation and resource depletion.

Kiertotyö can be implemented at various scales, from individual households to large-scale industrial operations. It involves a shift in mindset and business practices, requiring collaboration between governments, businesses, and consumers. The goal is to create a sustainable and resilient economy that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.