What is the Circular Economy?
The circular economy is the alternative to the traditional “take, make, dispose” model. Instead of using resources once and throwing them away, the circular economy keeps materials, products, and resources in use for as long as possible.
Circular Economy is built on three core principles
Design out waste and pollution
Design products, services and systems that prevent waste at source through durable materials, modular design and regenerative supply chains. Embedding circular principles early reduces disposal, lowers life-cycle emissions and unlocks value via reuse, repair and refurbishment.
Keep products and materials in use
Extend the life of materials through repair, reuse, refurbishment, remanufacturing and recycling. These strategies keep products in circulation for longer, preserve embedded value and minimise the need for new resource extraction, helping organisations cut costs, reduce emissions and build more resilient supply chains.
Regenerate natural systems
Ensuring that human activity restores and supports the environment by prioritising regenerative practices that strengthen ecosystems, rebuild natural capital and promote long-term resilience. This principle encourages organisations to move beyond minimising harm and instead create positive environmental impact, helping landscapes, communities and natural systems thrive well into the future.
In Practice
This means rethinking how we design, make, use, and reuse things — from business models and supply chains to the way cities manage resources. A circular economy benefits people, planet, and profit by:
- Reducing waste & carbon emissions
- Conserving natural resources
- Driving innovation & creating green jobs
- Building more resilient, sustainable economies
For learners, it provides practical tools to help organisations reduce waste, cut costs, and innovate sustainably.
For employers, it offers a route to developing a workforce equipped for a low-carbon, circular future.
- Check out this animation from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation which explains the circular economy concept.
Green Alliance
Recent research shows that scaling up circular economy practices across the UK could create more than 470,000 jobs by 2035 — from repair and remanufacturing to resource management, design, logistics, digital innovation, and local circular services.
Brighton & Hove leading the way
With the publication of its Circular Economy Route Map to 2035, Brighton & Hove City Council became one of the first UK councils to set out a clear pathway for a more sustainable, circular city. Action 17 specifically committed to developing local green skills — including the creation of Circular Economy Skills Bootcamps.