Global consumption patterns are leading to unprecedented amounts of waste. By 2050, annual global waste generation is projected to grow by 70%. Excessive waste is a hallmark of a modern, linear economy with an ethos of “take, make, and waste.” The need for an alternate path forward is clear as environmental costs mount.
One promising alternate path forward is a circular economy. Circular economies minimize waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They improve sustainability and tackle climate change, while also fostering economic growth and development.
The transition to a circular economy will require transformational, systems-level change. Circular economic practices are being explored in Canada and, in some instances, implemented with success. These pockets of circularity offer lessons for policymakers and businesses.
This paper explores three leading circular case studies in Canada—Smart Cities, Metal Tech Alley, and Fashion Takes Action—spanning different economic sectors— food, mining and metals, and textiles. Common success factors and obstacles to building circular value chains are highlighted for each case study.
This paper also presents eight key opportunities for governments and policymakers to explore, test, and adopt towards building a circular economy.
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