Natural resources are increasingly rare and where waste management becomes a major problem, the circular economy presents itself as a viable and lasting alternative to the traditional, linear approach, based on “taking-go”. This approach, which aims to extend the lifespan of products and materials, reduces pressure on natural resources, decreases waste and creates new economic opportunities. But how can companies really contribute to a more sustainable model?
Circular economy: a response to environmental challenges
The circular economy is based on three main principles: reduce, reuse and recycle. Unlike the linear model, where the products are manufactured, used and then thrown away, the circular economy seeks to maintain the value of products, materials and resources in the economy as long as possible. This model offers a significant reduction in waste, transforming what was once seen as waste in resources.
According to a study by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which is one of the main figures of the circular economy, the establishment of such an economy could generate up to 4.5 trillions of dollars in economic opportunities by 2030. France, at the forefront of this transition, has implemented a certain number of public policies to encourage this model, but it is mainly within companies that are seen.
The reuse of resources: a strategic lever for companies
The reuse of resources is one of the pillars of the circular economy. It is not only a question of recycling the materials but of designing products which can be repaired, refurbished or reused. For example, in the fashion industry, a large part of waste comes from used clothes. By reusing materials from end -of -life clothing, companies can not only limit waste, but also decrease their carbon footprint.
A French start-up that perfectly illustrates this approach is Looma company that has developed a process to recycle textiles at the end of life to create new fabrics. Thanks to a manufacturing process based on the recycling of old clothes, Loom has revolutionized the way in which fashion companies approach recycling. It thus reduces their dependence on natural resources. This shows that by integrating resource reuse strategies, companies can not only act in favor of the environment but also create a long -term viable economic model.
Another notable example in the resource reuse sector is Backaciaa company specializing in the collection and revaluation of building materials. Backacia offers construction and renovation companies to resell or reuse excess or unused materials. This reduces waste related to the building sector, while providing companies with a significant economic gain in terms of waste management costs.
Waste reduction: a major issue for the circular economy
Waste reduction is at the heart of the circular economy. Indeed, a significant part of the natural resources used in the production of goods ends in discharges or is cremated. This has both environmental and economic repercussions.
One of the innovative approaches is the manufacture of products from resources that would end in discharges. The hive that says yes!a collaborative platform that supports local agriculture plays an important role in reducing food waste. By allowing consumers to buy directly from local producers, this start-up not only reduces food waste linked to distribution, but also supports sustainable agriculture. By extending this model to other sectors, companies can help minimize the impact of industrial and food production on the environment.
The economic benefits of the circular economy
In addition to the obvious environmental advantages, the circular economy has considerable economic advantages. By allowing more effective management of resources, companies can save significant costs. By reusing materials, extending the life of products and reducing waste, they decrease their raw material needs and their production costs.
Circular models also promote innovation. Take the example of Sorbeta French brand of ethical and circular fashion. This company collects used clothing which it transforms into new fashionable items, thus reducing costs related to the purchase of new raw materials. In addition, by establishing a production model based on circularity, it can also better meet the demand of consumers more and more concerned with the environmental impact of the products they buy.
The economic impact is not limited to companies themselves. It can also contribute to the creation of new industries and new jobs. According to a report published by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, the circular economy could create nearly 200,000 jobs in France by 2030. The recycling, repair and reuse sectors are the most promising, offering many opportunities for start-ups and established companies.
Inspiring examples of French start-ups engaged in the circular economy
In addition to Loom, backacia and sorbet clothing, several other French start-ups embody innovation in the field of circular economy.
Cycleupfor example, focuses on recycling electronic waste. By allowing companies to collect and recycle their electronic devices in a responsible manner, CycleUp reduces the environmental impact of technological waste while generating opportunities for reuse of precious materials such as gold, silver and copper present in electronic components. By facilitating recovery and recycling, CycleUp offers a profitable model for companies concerned with managing their electronic waste in a responsible manner.
For his part, Phoenix Fight against food waste by facilitating the redistribution of unsold supermarkets and restaurants. Thanks to its application, Phenix allows its partners to sell or give their unsold food products rather than throwing them away. This model is beneficial both for the environment, by reducing the quantity of food waste, and for the economy, by allowing companies to recover part of the value of their unsold.
Finally, Group Recommece specializes in recycling and resale of used smartphones. By buying used phones, by repairing and reselling them, the company participates in the reduction of electronic waste and offers a less polluting alternative to the purchase of new devices. Recommece shows that the circular economy in the technology sector can be economically viable while contributing to the preservation of natural resources.
