Circular Economy
What is a circular economy?
The circular economy is a model, that aims to protect our planet. It moves away from the “make, take, throw away” model that we currently have, to a system where products are kept in use, maintaining their value for as long as possible. This helps to save natural resources and protect the environment.
The circular economy can be broken down into the ‘7 Rs’
- Reduce: Use fewer resources by only buying and using what you really need.
- Reuse: Find ways to use items multiple times before throwing them away.
- Recycle: Turn old products into new ones to keep resources in use and reduce the need for new materials.
- Redesign: Make new products from old ones and thinking from the outset about the items future uses.
- Repair: Fix and maintain items to make them last longer, like sewing a torn piece of clothing or fixing a household item.
- Renew: Refurbish or remake items that can’t be repaired to give them a new life.
- Recover: Learn how to properly dispose of different materials so they can be processed correctly.
The Circular Economy in Staffordshire
Communities in Staffordshire are already demonstrating countless inspiring efforts to create a more circular economy by enthusiastically reducing, reusing, repairing, renewing, and redesigning.
Pre-loved uniform markets
Staffordshire Libraries with The Salvation Army hold free pre-loved school uniform markets in Cannock and Stafford.
Community Repaint
We help to repurpose leftover paint for residents, schools and community projects in Staffordshire.
TechCycle
Residents recycle their old electrical items and FreeIT Stafford will repair items and donate them to charity.
Repair cafés
Visit a repair café where you can get items fixed for free or a small donation.
BikeCycle
A bike upcycling scheme is being trialled to collect and refurbish bikes and then make them available to disadvantaged families.
Reuse at the Recycling Centres
You can recycle up to 42 different materials at our Recycling Centres. Items that are in good condition are donated to local charities.
What are the benefits of a circular economy?
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Prolongs product lifespan
Keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible.
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Protects our natural resources
Reduces the need to extract natural resources, protecting our environment.
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Cost Efficiency
Utilising recycled materials can help lower costs.
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Durability
Products become more durable and last longer.
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Innovation
Encourages businesses to develop new ideas and products, driving greater innovation.
By adopting this approach, we protect our planet’s resources, lower carbon emissions, reduce waste and save money. Embracing circularity in Staffordshire can foster a thriving, sustainable economy that benefits both residents and businesses.
Benefits for residents
- Access to more durable, repairable products
- New job opportunities in circular industries
- Improved local environment and quality of life
- Potential for lower living costs through shared resources
Benefits for businesses
- New revenue streams from circular business models
- Reduced dependency on scarce raw materials
- Enhanced innovation and competitiveness
Got a circular economy initiative you want to launch?
Non-profit groups such as schools, parish councils and community groups can receive funding of up to £5,000 for projects around the circular economy.