Why circular economy targets are important to achieve net zero
The net-zero benefits of the principles are accepted, but a bank of strong case studies and knowledge sharing is needed to make it a practical reality
Historically, our economy has depended on a linear system where natural resources are extracted and processed to be raw materials; raw materials are manufactured into consumer products; consumers then dispose of the products after use.
However, natural resources are limited, and we need to use them more efficiently. In order to address this challenge, we need a circular economy which is about maximising resources and designing waste out of the system.
Source: Circularity Gap Report 2020, The Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE).
Moving from a linear to a circular economy means the top priority must be preventing waste in the first place, closely followed by reusing and recycling materials whenever possible.
So how do civil engineers support the world to become more circular?
They are vital to integrating sustainable materials and circular principles into the built world around us. Civil engineers ensure that recycled and renewable materials are taken into consideration during the design phase of construction projects, as well as testing and monitoring the quality of these materials throughout the projects.
Sending waste to landfill should be the last resort for all of us, and we need civil engineers to design and build modern recycling facilities that enable the materials we consume to be reused in a continuous loop.
"Engineers have a huge opportunity to end waste. First, we must find ways to consume less and use what we have better, for longer.
Astoundingly, it's estimated that 13% of the materials that go to a construction site go direct to waste without even being used!
To cut carbon and reduce waste, we must use these materials more efficiently and keep them in use for longer.
Civil engineers can also 'design for deconstruction', ensuring that materials are kept in their highest value form, and available to use again and again across projects.
If we can all be more circular and consume less, together, we can eliminate waste and protect our planet's resources for future generations."
Severn Trent Water invested £60m to improve the waste and water supply for Newark-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire.
The project aimed to relieve 400 homes and business from sewer flooding and provide a robust waste and water supply system to serve the town for many years to come.
Water, sanitation and wastewater utilities play an important role in the circular economy.
Explore ICE's blogs, webinars and resources on the circular economy, as civil engineers help us all waste less and recycle more.