In a world where the global economy is alarmingly only 7.2% circular, the urgency to redefine our relationship with materials has become undeniable. The recently-published Circularity Gap Report 2023 — first released in 2018 and now in its sixth iteration — serves as both a measure and a challenge, urging us all to recalibrate our efforts towards a more sustainable economy. 

Here, UNTHA UK’s parts and maintenance executive, Julie Cassidy delves into the key takeaways from the report, drilling into the transformative changes required in waste management specifically.

This document — which acts as a comprehensive overview of global environmental initiatives — underscores the urgency of bridging the gap between current ‘green’ practices and a truly sustainable future. Its statistics are startling, revealing that in the six years since its inception, the circularity rate has plummeted from 9.1% to a disconcerting 7.2%,. What’s more, data suggests that only 8.6% of the world’s resources are currently recycled. As waste management professionals, it is crucial for us to recognise the shared role we play in narrowing such a gap. 

Use less, use longer, use again, make clean 

The report underlines four fundamental principles in reversing this downward spiral — use less, use longer, use again, and make clean. These criteria, when integrated into our material consumption habits, offer a transformative path to sustainability. In short, recycling alone is not enough — a holistic approach is vital.

16 circular strategies 

The Circularity Gap Report suggests 16 circular solutions across four pivotal global systems — food, built environment, manufactured goods, and mobility. These solutions aim not only to curtail virgin material extraction, but also to optimise the use of existing materials, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewables, and incorporating regenerative materials.

Tailored approaches for global transformation

Recognising the disparities between different countries when it comes to sustainability progress, the report categorises them into ‘shift, ‘grow’, and ‘build’ nations. Shift countries, despite delivering high living standards, need to focus on reducing overconsumption. Grow countries, in their rapid industrialisation, must stabilise and optimise material consumption. Build countries, housing the majority, need to enhance infrastructure responsibly, even if it means increasing their material footprint. The transformation to a circular economy is not one-size-fits-all.

Public-private collaboration 

Realising the ambitious vision of a circular economy demands purpose-driven collaboration between the public and private sectors. Policies, backed by ambitious targets and extended producer responsibility mandates, can magnify these efforts and ensure a sensible transition. Policymakers play a pivotal role in shaping a future where long-term interests beat short-term gains. And, conferences like COP28 underscore the transformative power of policy in shaping global sustainability progress.

Three principles for circular success

To achieve the ambitious goals outlined in the report, a shared vision is imperative. Three principles — reduce, regenerate, and redistribute — form the foundation. Shifting from efficiency to sufficiency, respecting and supporting the planet’s regenerative capacity, and redistributing wealth and materials fairly, are cornerstones for a circular economy.

At UNTHA UK, we recognise the transformative power of technology in reshaping waste management approaches. As a leading authority in industrial shredding solutions, our commitment to sustainability is embedded in our DNA. Our cutting-edge machinery is designed to optimise resource recovery, and our long-lasting shredders aren’t only built to last — they’re engineered for refurbishment and rebuild too, for an extensive operational life.

From WEEE to plastic recycling, our state-of-the-art machinery is engineered to maximise material liberation, reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal. By investing in UNTHA’s technology, waste management professionals can elevate their circular initiatives, contributing to a more sustainable future.

We work closely with waste management professionals, leveraging our expertise to tailor solutions that meet the unique challenges of each operation. And this collaborative approach extends beyond product delivery — we offer a true partnership, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in circular waste management.

The Circularity Gap Report 2023 encourages us to embrace change. Through innovative shredding solutions and collaborative partnerships, we aim to propel the waste management industry into a more circular future. 

Eager to see how our circular machinery can help you close the waste management loop? Get in touch with the team today.