kiertotaloudellisuus

Kiertotaloudellisuus, or circular economy, refers to an economic model in which the economy is based on the gradual use and regeneration of resources, aiming to minimize waste and the consumption of non-renewable resources. This approach considers the entire lifecycle of a product, from design and production to use and then its reuse, recycling, or biodegradation.

The concept of kiertotaloudellisuus was first introduced in 1989 by Paul Hawken. He proposed a system in which resources are considered as temporary, borrowing them from nature and then returning them once no longer needed. Kiertotaloudellisuuden idea emphasizes the importance of adopting production and consumption methods that are restorative and regenerative by design.

In a kiertotaloudellisessa system, one of the essential principles is to eliminate waste. This can be accomplished through the use of renewable energy sources, the reuse of materials, and waste reduction by recycling, upcycling, or biodegradation. Furthermore, the design phase is key, as products should be designed from the beginning with goals for reuse, recycling, or biological decomposition.

Kiertotaloudellisuus also encourages businesses and governments to adopt new economic policies that prevent waste and pollution. Industrial firms may promote product take-back, repair services, and product longevity through product design and business models. Additionally, government policies would ideally create conditions for the growth of a new generation of industries and business models that are restorative and regenerative by design.

By adopting a kiertotaloudellisenna approach, the goal is to achieve long-term GDP growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.