Circular Economy
Energy Transition is a broad phenomenon; the circular economy is integral to the change.
The energy transition is expanding and developing in a structured way, also through the Circular Economy.
The Circular Economy opens the doors to a new model of understanding sustainability and innovation, where the use of natural resources, the customer and the market take on centrality.
Through this new approach many advantages can be obtained: reduction of CO2 emissions, energy efficiency, cost reduction and optimization of processes along the entire supply chain.
Circular Economy incorporates a series of concepts that take a strong weight in the global energy transition process. We are talking about environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, innovation, virtuousness.
The Circular Economy is a model that contrasts with the Linear Economy.
Currently, relying on a so-called linear model, we have developed wasteful processes: extraction of materials, production, consumption and waste (with the end of the product's lifecycle).
The so-called circular model is more attentive and empowering: "An economy designed to be able to regenerate itself." - Ellen MacArthur FoundationEllen MacArthur Foundation - "In a circular economy model, the flows of materials are of two types: the biological ones, capable of being reintegrated into the biosphere, and the technical ones, destined to be revalorized without entering the biosphere."
The Circular Economy model
The Circular Economy can be summarized in a simplified model:
Reduction: the target is to reduce the quantity of natural raw materials used for the production of goods. The reduction of waste of resources also becomes crucial in the processing and management phases of the asset, up to the end of its lifecycle;Reuse: the target is to prevent an asset, which is potentially still usable, from reaching the end of its lifecycle prematurely;Recycle: the target is to transform waste into a new product. It gives them value in generating other goods and reducing the environmental impact of production processes as much as possible.
The need to build a solid Circular Economy model derives from the continuous growth in demand for raw materials to meet the demands of an increasingly pressing and needy market for products. Natural resources, which by their nature are scarce and limited, must satisfy the expectations and demands of an ever-growing population.
Finally, reducing the consumption of natural raw materials and increasing the weight of recycling phases has a clear impact on the environment, reducing the emission of carbon dioxide and other polluting substances.
The Circular choice
For businesses, the choice to embrace a Circular Economy model helps trigger new economic growth. The rational use of resources (or raw materials) and the recycling of part of the waste leads to a significant reduction in costs and less dependence on exogenous factors. Sustainability does not take second place, generating new value to support the business.
This kind of choice, aimed at sustainability, creates value, both on the economic and reputational side (recognition by consumers, institutions, and partners), generating significant competitive advantages.