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2.2. The main principles of circular economy
Elimination of waste and pollution
By focusing on a design of materials in order to be able to re-enter the economy at the end
of their use, the concept of waste can be eliminated.

Page | 13 Reuse of products and materials
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When the product itself or its materials can be kept in use then nothing becomes a waste,
as their value is retained.

Regeneration of nature
The materials are currently lost after use, where they could return to the earth, as the
biological ones do. Through good farming practices, the biodiversity and nutrients of the
soil can be enhanced, focusing more on regeneration instead of extraction giving also nature
more room to thrive.
(ellenmacarthurfoundation.org, n.d.)

2.3. Benefits of Circular Economy
Moving towards a more circular economy could deliver benefits in order to eliminate the negative
impacts on the environment, improving the security of the supply of raw materials, stimulating
innovation, boosting economic growth.

In addition to that, another benefit is the job creation. It is estimated to reach 700,000
jobs in the EU alone by 2030! (www.europarl.europa.eu, 2015)

In general some of the benefits are:

• Lower total greenhouse gas emissions
• Products that last longer (better quality and value for money in the long term)
• Improved security of the supply of raw materials
• Boosting economic growth
• Creation of jobs (European Parliament, 2015)

2.4. Circular Economy in Everyday life
Every one of us should try to contribute in the transition to circular economy beginning from changing
some small habits in our everyday life. Ask your students to list some tips.
• Reduce food waste
• Reusable bags/water bottle/cutlery/straws
• Avoid paper cups
• Recycle right etc.

When a product is broken, it will be repaired or new products will be made from it. In a circular
economy, there is no waste to be thrown away rather than being a new raw material. This will help to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save raw materials.
Consuming and choosing sustainable products or even when materials, products or even cars are
shared then less raw materials are needed. (Waterstaat, 2016)

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This communication reflects the
views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the

information contained therein.