Traditional model vs. Circular

The traditional business model is often described as "take, make, dispose." We extract raw materials, use them to create products, and then discard them as waste. But a new, more sustainable model called the circular economy is changing that. In this system, waste is eliminated, and resources are kept in use for as long as possible. Products are designed to be reused, repaired, and recycled, "closing the loop" on their lifecycle.

Small businesses like yours are perfectly positioned to drive this change. You can become part of the solution by implementing circular economy principles into your own operations. This could mean:

• Reusing: For cafes, this could mean using suppliers that provide coffee beans in large, returnable tubs instead of single-use bags. For clinics and salons, it might involve using reusable towels or refillable containers for cleaning supplies.
  
  

• Composting: Turn organic waste, like coffee grounds from a cafe or even hair from a salon, into a valuable resource for enriching soil. This diverts a large volume of waste from landfills and creates a new, useful product.
  
  

• Repairing & Repurposing: Before you throw away a broken item, see if it can be fixed. Could an old chair be reupholstered for your salon? Could a broken coffee machine be repaired by a local specialist?
  
  

• Partnering with Suppliers: Seek out suppliers who have their own take-back programs or use packaging that can be returned and refilled. This extends the circular model beyond your business and throughout your supply chain.

Embracing the circular economy is the next step in your sustainability journey. It transforms your approach from simply reducing waste to creating a business that regenerates and renews, benefiting both your bottom line and the environment.