1.3.21—Circular economy model

A circular economy eliminates waste by design, keeps products and materials in use, and regenerates natural systems rather than relying on recycling alone.

Apply the three principles in order: prevent pollution, retain product value through maintenance/reuse/repair, then recover materials and nature. Check barriers such as rules, awareness, finance and design.

A repairable phone kept in use retains more value than shredding it immediately; composting can return organic material to soil.

Easier repair keeps the whole product in use before end-of-life recovery.

Circular economy is not recycling alone; prevention, circulation and regeneration come first.