Circular Economy Glossary | Key Terms & Concepts

Action Plan

A structured approach outlining key steps, responsibilities, and timelines to achieve sustainability goals, ensuring measurable progress toward a circular economy.

Adaptive reuse

The process of repurposing old buildings, products, or materials for new uses instead of demolition or disposal. it extends the lifespan of materials and reduces waste.

Additive manufacturing

Also known as 3d printing, this technology builds products layer by layer, reducing material waste and enabling the use of recycled or biodegradable materials.

Advanced recycling technologies

Innovations in recycling that break down plastics and other materials at a molecular level, allowing for higher-quality recycled materials.

Agricultural waste utilisation

The practice of repurposing crop residues, manure, and other byproducts into biofuels, fertilisers, or animal feed, minimising waste and closing resource loops.

Agroecology

A farming approach that integrates ecological principles into agricultural systems to reduce waste, enhance biodiversity, and improve soil health.

Air purification through circular solutions

Technologies that capture pollutants and convert them into useful materials, such as carbon capture for sustainable fuels or building materials.

Algae-based products

Innovations using algae as a sustainable resource for biofuels, biodegradable plastics, food, and textiles, offering a regenerative alternative to fossil-based materials.

Alternative materials

Substitutes for traditional materials, such as biodegradable plastics, mycelium- based packaging, or recycled content, to reduce environmental impact.

Alternative protein sources

Sustainable food solutions such as plant-based, insect-based, or lab-grown proteins that reduce environmental impact and resource consumption.

Anaerobic Digestion

A natural process where organic waste, such as food scraps, is broken down by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen, producing biogas and nutrient-rich digestate for energy generation and soil enrichment.

Anticipatory design

A design strategy that considers future use, maintenance, and end-of-life scenarios to create products that are easily repaired, upgraded, or recycled.

Appliance refurbishment

The process of repairing and restoring used appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines) to extend their lifecycle and reduce e-waste.

Aqueous solvent recycling

The recovery and purification of industrial solvents used in cleaning, degreasing, or chemical processes, reducing hazardous waste.

Artificial photosynthesis

A developing technology that mimics natural photosynthesis to create fuels or chemicals from sunlight, water, and co2, supporting renewable energy and waste reduction.

As-a-service model

A business approach where customers pay for the service provided by a product (e.g., mobility-as-a-service, lighting-as-a-service) rather than owning the product itself, encouraging durability and reuse.

Asset recovery

The process of reclaiming, refurbishing, and reselling used products, parts, or materials to extend their lifecycle and keep them in circulation.

Asset sharing

A business model that promotes shared access to underutilised assets (e.g., tools, vehicles, office space) to maximise efficiency and minimise resource consumption.

Asset tracking for circularity

The use of iot and blockchain technology to track materials and products throughout their lifecycle, enhancing reuse, refurbishment, and recycling efforts.

Automated sorting

The use of ai and robotics to separate waste materials efficiently, improving recycling rates and reducing contamination in the recycling stream.

Battery recycling and repurposing

The recovery of valuable materials from used batteries to create new ones, supporting sustainable energy storage and reducing electronic waste.

Bio-based plastics

Plastics derived from renewable biological sources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, that reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.

Bio-inspired design (biomimicry)

A design approach that emulates nature’s processes and structures to create sustainable and regenerative products and systems.

Biocircular economy

A concept that integrates biological resources into circular economy principles, ensuring that organic materials are sustainably sourced, used, and regenerated.

Biodegradable materials

Substances that break down naturally into non-toxic components, reducing waste and pollution. they play a crucial role in sustainable packaging and product design.

Biodiesel from waste oils

The production of renewable fuel from used cooking oils and other waste fats, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimising waste.

Biodiversity Loss

The decline of plant, animal, and microbial species due to habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change, disrupting ecosystems and natural balance.

Biodiversity protection in circular economy

Practices that ensure natural resources are used in a way that supports ecosystem health, soil regeneration, and sustainable agriculture.

Biofabrication

The creation of materials and products using biological processes, such as growing leather alternatives from fungi or textiles from algae, reducing reliance on synthetic materials.

Biogas production

The process of converting organic waste (e.g., food scraps, manure) into methane- rich biogas through anaerobic digestion, providing renewable energy and reducing landfill waste.

Biological cycle

One of the two main cycles in the circular economy (the other being the technical cycle), which focuses on returning biodegradable materials safely to nature through composting, digestion, or regeneration.

Biomass utilisation

The process of using organic materials, such as wood, crop waste, or algae, to produce energy, chemicals, or materials in a sustainable manner.

Biorefinery

A facility that processes biomass into a range of valuable products, such as biofuels, bioplastics, and bio-based chemicals, promoting sustainable resource use.

Biosphere economy

An economic system that operates within planetary boundaries by using natural systems efficiently and regeneratively, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Blockchain for circularity

A digital ledger technology used to track product lifecycles, authenticate recycled content, and enhance transparency in supply chains to prevent waste and fraud.

Bottle-to-bottle recycling

A closed-loop recycling process where plastic bottles are collected, processed, and turned into new bottles, minimising virgin plastic production.

Brownfield redevelopment

The process of repurposing contaminated or abandoned industrial sites for new uses, reducing urban sprawl and land waste.

Business model innovation for circularity

The development of new business strategies, such as product-as-a-service, leasing, or take-back schemes, that promote resource eﬃciency and longevity increasingly evolving to incorporate circular economy principles and sustainable growth.

Business Models

The strategic frameworks companies use to create, deliver, and capture value, increasingly evolving to incorporate circular economy principles and sustainable growth.

Buy-back programs

Initiatives where companies repurchase used products from customers for refurbishment, remanufacturing, or recycling, keeping materials in circulation longer.

Byproduct synergy (industrial symbiosis)

The practice of using waste or byproducts from one industry as raw materials for another, reducing waste and optimising resource efficiency.

Carbon capture and utilisation (CCU)

A process that captures carbon dioxide emissions and repurposes them for industrial applications, such as creating fuels, chemicals, or building materials.

Carbon emissions

The release of carbon dioxide (co₂) and other greenhouse gases from human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, contributes to global warming and climate change.

Carbon footprint reduction

Strategies and practices that lower the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted throughout a product’s lifecycle.

Chemical recycling

An advanced recycling process that breaks down plastics and other materials at the molecular level, enabling the creation of high-quality recycled materials.

Circular agriculture

Farming practices that minimise waste, recycle nutrients, and integrate sustainable land and water use techniques.

Circular Business Models

Sustainable business strategies that replace linear production with regenerative practices, prioritising reuse, repair, and recycling.

Circular business models

Economic models that focus on extending product lifecycles through resale, leasing, refurbishment, or take-back programs.

Circular construction

Building practices that use recycled, modular, and adaptable materials to reduce waste and enable material recovery.

Circular design

A product design approach that prioritises durability, repairability, recyclability, and modularity to ensure materials remain in use for as long as possible.

Circular economy

An economic model that eliminates waste and pollution by keeping materials in use and regenerating natural systems, supporting long-term sustainability.

Circular economy metrics

Measurement tools and indicators that track progress in resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability within circular systems.

Circular packaging

Packaging designed for reuse, recycling, or compostability, reducing environmental impact and resource consumption.

Circular supply chains

Supply chains designed to minimise waste by using recycled, refurbished, or sustainably sourced materials in production.

Circularity Gap

The disconnect between current global resource use and an ideal circular economy, highlighting the need for improved resource efficiency and waste reduction.

Climate Change

Long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns, driven by human activities such as deforestation and emissions, impacting ecosystems and economies worldwide.

Closed Loop

A regenerative system where materials and products are continually reused, repaired, or recycled, minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency.

Closed-loop system

A system where materials and products are continuously reused, repaired, and recycled, minimising waste and reducing the need for virgin resources.

Collaborative consumption

A model where consumers share, rent, or lease goods instead of owning them, reducing resource use and promoting access over ownership.

Community-based circular initiatives

Local projects such as repair cafés, tool libraries, and swap events that promote sharing, reuse, and waste reduction.

Consumer awareness and education

Programs that inform individuals about sustainable consumption, waste reduction, and the benefits of circular economy practices.

Consumer product take-back programs

Initiatives where companies collect used products from consumers to refurbish, recycle, or responsibly dispose of them.

Corporate circularity strategies

Business strategies that integrate circular economy principles into operations, supply chains, and product development.

Cradle-to-cradle (C2C)

A design philosophy that promotes products that can be fully recycled or safely returned to nature, ensuring continuous material use without generating waste.

Critical raw material recovery

The extraction and reuse of scarce and valuable materials (e.g., rare earth metals from electronics) to reduce reliance on virgin mining.

Cybernetics

The study of systems, feedback, and control processes in nature and technology, applied to sustainability to optimise resource efficiency and circular design.

Decarbonisaton

The process of reducing carbon emissions from industrial activities, energy production, and supply chains to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability in the circular economy.

Decentralised energy systems

Small-scale renewable energy production (e.g., solar panels, microgrids) that reduces reliance on centralised fossil fuel sources and supports local circular energy economies.

Decentralised waste management

A localised approach to waste treatment and resource recovery, reducing transportation needs and improving recycling rates through community-led initiatives and small-scale facilities.

Dematerialisation

The reduction of material and resource use in products and services through digitalisation, miniaturisation, and innovative design, leading to less waste and lower environmental impact.

Deposit return scheme (DRS)

A system where consumers pay a small deposit when purchasing a product (e.g., beverage bottles) and receive a refund when they return the used item for recycling or reuse.

Design for Circularity

A forward-thinking approach where products and services are designed to be reused, repaired, or recycled, reducing waste and extending their lifecycle.

Design for disassembly (DfD)/design for circularity

A design approach that ensures products can be easily taken apart at the end of their life cycle to facilitate repair, reuse, and recycling of components.

Design for longevity

A product design philosophy that prioritises durability, easy maintenance, and timeless appeal to extend product lifespans and reduce environmental impact.

Design thinking for circularity

A problem-solving methodology that applies human-centred and sustainable design principles to create products and systems that support a circular economy.

Digital product passport (DPP)

A digital record containing information about a product’s materials, origin, and recyclability, helping consumers and businesses make sustainable choices and track circularity.

Digitalisation

The use of technology to enhance efficiency, track materials, and optimise waste management in support of circular economy practices.

Disruptive innovation in circular economy

Breakthrough technologies and business models that challenge traditional linear consumption patterns, such as sharing platforms, biomaterials, and ai-driven recycling.

Distributed manufacturing

A production model where goods are made closer to the point of consumption using decentralised facilities and 3d printing, reducing transportation emissions and material waste.

Donor material recovery

The practice of salvaging functional components from discarded products (e.g., electronics, vehicles) to be used in refurbishments or manufacturing.

Doughnut economics

A sustainable economic model that balances social needs and ecological limits, promoting circularity and responsible resource management.

Downcycling

The process of recycling materials into lower-quality products with reduced functionality, which is less desirable than closed-loop recycling but still prevents landfills waste.

Dual-use products

Items designed for multiple functions or transformations (e.g., modular furniture, reversible clothing) to extend usability and reduce waste.

Durable goods

Products designed to last longer through high-quality materials, modular components, and repairability, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising waste.

Dynamic resource allocation

The real-time optimisation of resources, such as energy, water, and raw materials, to minimise waste and improve efficiency within circular economy systems.

E-waste recycling

The process of recovering valuable materials from discarded electronics, such as metals from circuit boards and plastics from casings, to reduce landfill waste and resource extraction.

Eco-design

A design approach that considers environmental impact throughout a product’s lifecycle, focusing on energy efficiency, material selection, recyclability, and minimal waste generation.

Eco-friendly alternatives

Sustainable substitutes for traditional materials and processes, such as plant- based plastics, algae-based textiles, or non-toxic dyes, reducing pollution and waste.

Eco-friendly packaging

Packaging solutions made from biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable materials that reduce environmental impact and contribute to waste reduction.

Eco-industrial parks

Industrial areas designed for resource-sharing and byproduct utilisation, where businesses collaborate to optimise waste streams and create a closed-loop system.

Eco-innovation

The development of new products, processes, or business models that minimise environmental impact and support circular economy principles.

Eco-labelling

A certification system that identifies products with a lower environmental impact, helping consumers make informed choices that support circular economy goals.

Eco-restoration

The process of rehabilitating degraded ecosystems through reforestation, soil regeneration, and biodiversity conservation to enhance natural resource cycles.

Eco-tourism and circularity

Sustainable travel practices that minimise waste, support local economies, and encourage responsible consumption to preserve natural resources.

Efficient resource utilisation

Strategies to maximise the productivity of materials and energy in production and consumption, minimising waste and reducing environmental impact.

Emissions circularity

The capture, reuse, or offsetting of industrial emissions (e.g., co2, methane) through technologies such as carbon capture, biochar production, and regenerative agriculture.

End-of-life (EOL) management

The strategies and processes involved in handling products after their use phase, including repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing, and recycling to keep materials in circulation.

End-of-waste criteria

Regulations defining when waste materials can be safely reclassified as resources, promoting their reuse and integration into new products.

Energy recovery

The conversion of non-recyclable waste materials into usable energy, such as heat, electricity, or biofuels, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and landfill disposal.

Energy-efficient manufacturing

The use of advanced technologies, smart systems, and sustainable materials to minimise energy consumption and emissions in the production process.

Environmental footprint reduction

Strategies aimed at lowering the overall impact of a product, service, or industry on natural resources, ecosystems, and carbon emissions.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

A systematic evaluation of the potential environmental consequences of a project, policy, or product to guide sustainable decision-making.

Ethical sourcing

The procurement of raw materials and goods from suppliers that adhere to environmental and social responsibility standards, ensuring sustainable resource use and fair labour practices.

Extended producer responsibility (EPR)

A policy framework that holds manufacturers accountable for the end-of-life management of their products, encouraging sustainable design and take-back programs.

Fair-certified circular supply chains

Supply chains that ensure fair wages, ethical sourcing, and sustainable practices while prioritising circular principles such as recycling and responsible production.

Fairphone and ethical electronics

An example of circular design in consumer electronics, focusing on modularity, repairability, and sustainable material sourcing.

Fast fashion waste reduction

Strategies aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the fast fashion industry through recycling, resale, sustainable materials, and extended garment lifecycles.

Feedstock recycling

The process of breaking down plastic waste into raw chemical components that can be used to produce new materials, reducing reliance on virgin resources.

Filament recycling in 3D printing

The reuse of plastic filaments in additive manufacturing (3d printing) to minimise waste and promote material circularity.

Financial incentives for circular economy

Government subsidies, tax benefits, and financial models that encourage businesses and consumers to adopt circular practices.

Finite resource management

Practices focused on conserving and optimising the use of non- renewable resources such as fossil fuels, rare metals, and minerals through recycling, substitution, and circular design.

Finite Resources

Natural materials that are limited in supply and cannot be replenished at the rate they are consumed, such as fossil fuels and certain minerals.

Flexible packaging recycling

Innovations that enable the recycling of multilayer and flexible packaging materials, which are traditionally difficult to process.

Floating circular economies

Sustainable initiatives aimed at reducing waste and pollution in marine environments, such as ocean cleanup programs and circular solutions for cruise ships.

Food sharing platforms

Digital and community-driven platforms that help redistribute surplus food from businesses and households to prevent waste and support local communities.

Food upcycling

The practice of transforming surplus or imperfect food into new products, such as snacks, beverages, or cosmetics, to prevent food waste.

Food waste valorisation

Transforming food waste into valuable products such as animal feed, biofuels, or compost to minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency.

Forest-based circular economy

Sustainable forestry practices that ensure wood and paper products are recycled, biodegradable, and sourced from responsibly managed forests.

Fossil-free materials

The development and use of alternatives to petroleum-based materials, such as bio-based plastics, algae-based packaging, and hemp fibres, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Functional recycling

Recycling processes that retain the original quality and functionality of materials (e.g., high-quality aluminium recycling) rather than downcycling into lower-grade materials.

Functional service economy

A shift from selling products to offering services (e.g., leasing, repair, maintenance), promoting product longevity and reducing material consumption.

Future-proofing through circularity

Business and policy strategies designed to ensure long-term sustainability by integrating circular economy principles into product development, urban planning, and industry regulations.

Garbage to goods innovation

The process of transforming waste materials into high-value products, such as turning ocean plastic into sneakers or e-waste into jewellery.

Gasification of organic waste

A technology that converts biomass and organic waste into syngas, which can be used as a renewable energy source or a raw material for bio-based products.

Geothermal energy for sustainable manufacturing

The use of renewable geothermal heat in industrial production to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease emissions.

Gigaton reduction strategies

Large-scale corporate and governmental initiatives aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions by billions of metric tons through circular economy practices.

Glass bottle reuse systems

Circular initiatives that collect and clean glass bottles for refilling and resale, reducing the need for virgin glass production and lowering waste.

Global circular economy index

A framework for measuring how well countries and businesses are adopting circular economy principles, based on waste reduction, resource efficiency, and sustainability policies.

Global circular trade

International policies and practices that facilitate the exchange of secondary materials, refurbished goods, and recycled components to promote a circular global economy.

Grassroots circular movements

Community-led initiatives that promote repair, sharing, and waste reduction, such as local swap shops, repair cafés, and upcycling workshops.

Green bonds for circular economy

Financial instruments that fund projects focused on sustainability, including recycling infrastructure, renewable energy, and circular business models.

Green building materials

Construction materials that are sustainable, non-toxic, and recyclable, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and bio-based insulation.

Green chemistry

The design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous substances, making production more sustainable and less polluting.

Green logistics

The optimisation of transportation and supply chains to reduce carbon footprints, including sustainable packaging, electric delivery fleets, and reverse logistics.

Green manufacturing

A production approach that minimises waste, reduces energy consumption, and incorporates sustainable materials to create environmentally friendly products.

Green packaging solutions

Alternatives to traditional plastic packaging, such as biodegradable films, mushroom-based packaging, and reusable containers, aimed at reducing environmental waste.

Green procurement

The practice of selecting suppliers and products based on their sustainability credentials, prioritising recycled materials, ethical sourcing, and low environmental impact.

Green urbanism

A sustainable urban planning approach that integrates circular principles, such as waste-to-energy solutions, green infrastructure, and resource-efficient buildings.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Gases such as CO₂ and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, accelerating climate change and disrupting global ecosystems.

Greywater recycling

The treatment and reuse of lightly used water from sinks, showers, and laundry for irrigation or industrial applications, reducing water consumption and waste.

Grid flexibility through circular energy systems

The integration of decentralised and renewable energy sources into power grids to optimise energy use and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources.

Hazardous material substitution

The replacement of toxic or non-recyclable substances with safer, more sustainable alternatives in manufacturing and product design.

Hazardous waste reducton

Strategies aimed at minimising the generation of toxic waste through sustainable production processes, material substitutions, and improved waste management techniques.

Heat Recovery Systems

Technologies that capture and repurpose waste heat from industrial processes, reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency in manufacturing.

High-efficiency appliances and circular economy

The role of energy-efficient home and industrial appliances in reducing electricity and water consumption, extending product lifetimes, and promoting repairability.

High-value recycling

Recycling processes that maintain or enhance the quality of materials, such as closed-loop aluminium recycling, to ensure resources remain valuable and usable in new products.

Historical building material reuse

Salvaging and repurposing materials from old buildings, such as wood, bricks, and steel, for new construction projects to reduce waste and preserve architectural heritage.

Holistic Perspective

An approach that considers the entire lifecycle of materials and systems, ensuring sustainability is integrated at every stage of production and consumption.

Holistic perspective/holistic resource management

A comprehensive approach that considers the entire lifecycle of managing materials and systems, energy, and water in a way that balances environmental, social, and economic sustainability at every stage of production and consumption.

Horizontal collaboration in circular supply chains

The practice of businesses within the same industry working together to share resources, logistics, and waste streams to optimise circular operations.

Household electronics refurbishment

Programs that extend the lifespan of consumer electronics through repairs, part replacements, and resale, reducing e-waste and conserving valuable resources.

Household waste sorting

Systems and policies that encourage proper waste segregation at the household level to improve recycling rates and reduce contamination of recyclable materials.

Human-centred circular design

A design approach that prioritises user needs, product longevity, and sustainability, ensuring products are repairable, reusable, and durable.

Hybrid business models for circularity

Combining elements of sharing, leasing, refurbishment, and recycling into a single business model to maximise product lifespans and resource efficiency.

Hybrid materials in circular economy

The use of multi-functional materials designed for recyclability and sustainability, such as bio-composites or reinforced bioplastics.

Hybrid vehicles and circularity

The integration of hybrid and electric vehicle technologies with circular principles, such as battery recycling, remanufacturing, and second-life applications for ev batteries.

Hydrogen economy and circularity

The use of green hydrogen as a renewable energy source in industries and transportation, reducing dependency on fossil fuels and decreasing carbon emissions.

Hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC)

A process that converts organic waste into biochar, fuels, and other valuable materials through high-temperature water treatment, contributing to carbon sequestration and resource recovery.

Incentivised recycling programs

Government or corporate initiatives that reward consumers and businesses for recycling products, such as deposit return schemes for bottles and electronic take-back programs.

Inclusive circular economy

A framework ensuring that circular economy benefits are accessible to all, particularly marginalised communities, through job creation, fair wages, and sustainable development.

Incubators for circular startups

Innovation hubs that support new businesses developing circular products, services, and technologies to drive sustainable economic growth.

Industrial composting

Large-scale composting facilities that process organic waste from food, agriculture, and paper industries into valuable soil nutrients, reducing landfill waste.

Industrial symbiosis

A system where industries collaborate to use each other’s byproducts, waste, or excess energy as resources, reducing waste and improving resource eﬃciency.

Industrial waste upcycling

The transformation of industrial waste into high-value products, such as using textile scraps to create insulation materials or converting plastic waste into construction panels.

Industrial water reuse

Systems that recycle and repurpose water within industrial processes, reducing freshwater consumption and wastewater discharge.

Infrastructure for circularity

The development of smart cities, circular supply chains, and waste recovery systems that facilitate efficient material reuse and energy conservation.

Innovation in circular construction

The adoption of modular, prefabricated, and recyclable materials in building projects to reduce construction waste and enable material recovery.

Innovative biomaterials

The development of sustainable materials derived from natural sources, such as mycelium-based packaging, algae textiles, and biodegradable plastics, to replace non-renewable resources.

Integrated circular economy policies

Legislative frameworks that incorporate waste reduction, product stewardship, and sustainable business models to drive large-scale adoption of circular practices.

Integrated product lifecycle management (PLM)

A strategic approach that incorporates circular economy principles into product design, manufacturing, and end-of-life strategies to maximise resource efficiency.

Integrated waste-to-energy solutions

Technologies that convert non-recyclable waste into biofuels, electricity, or heat, reducing landfill dependency while generating renewable energy.

Intelligent asset tracking

The use of blockchain and digital twin technology to monitor the movement, usage, and condition of products, ensuring efficient reuse and recycling.

Intelligent packaging

Smart packaging solutions that extend product shelf life, track recyclability, and provide consumers with information on proper disposal or reuse.

Intelligent waste sorting

Ai-driven systems that automate the sorting of recyclables, improving the efficiency and quality of waste management processes.

Intersectoral collaboration for circularity

Cooperation between different industries, such as agriculture and energy, to create closed-loop systems that minimise waste and optimise resource use.

Investment in remanufacturing

Financial support for businesses that refurbish, repair, and resell used products, extending product life cycles and reducing the demand for virgin materials.

Jarring waste reduction innovations

The development of innovative packaging solutions, such as refillable glass jars or compostable containers, that help reduce single-use packaging waste.

Jet fuel from recycled materials

The production of sustainable aviation fuel (saf) from waste oils, biomass, and captured carbon, reducing emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

Job creation in the circular economy

The employment opportunities generated by circular industries, including recycling, remanufacturing, repair services, and sustainable design.

Job training for circular skills

Educational programs focused on developing skills in recycling, remanufacturing, repair, and sustainable design, preparing workers for careers in the circular economy.

Joint advocacy for circular policies

Efforts by environmental groups, businesses, and policymakers to push for regulations that promote circular business models, waste reduction, and resource efficiency.

Joint circular initiatives

Collaborative efforts between governments, businesses, and communities to develop circular economy programs, such as shared resource hubs or zero-waste policies.

Joint resource recovery programs

Collaborative efforts between industries to recover, recycle, and repurpose materials, reducing overall waste and optimising supply chain efficiency.

Joint ventures for sustainable innovation

Partnerships between companies to develop and implement circular economy solutions, such as bio-based materials, sustainable packaging, and closed-loop manufacturing.

Judiciary support for circular economy

Legal frameworks and court decisions that enforce circular economy principles, such as extended producer responsibility (epr) and zero-waste mandates.

Judicious resource use

The responsible consumption and management of materials, ensuring that natural resources are used efficiently and remain in circulation for as long as possible.

Juice pulp waste utilisation

The repurposing of fruit and vegetable pulp from juice production into food products, animal feed, or bio-based materials to minimise food waste.

Junction of circular economy and renewable energy

The integration of circular economy practices with renewable energy development, ensuring that wind turbines, solar panels, and batteries are designed for recyclability and long-term use.

Junk-to-treasure programs

Community-based initiatives that collect and refurbish discarded items, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing, for resale or donation, extending product lifespans.

Jurisdictional circular policies

Laws and regulations implemented at local, national, or international levels to enforce circular economy practices, such as bans on single-use plastics or mandatory recycling.

Just-in-time manufacturing (JIT) and circularity

A production strategy that minimises waste by producing goods only as they are needed, reducing overproduction, excess inventory, and material waste.

Jute as a sustainable material

A natural, biodegradable fibre used as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials in textiles, packaging, and construction, supporting circular material use.

Juxtaposition of linear vs. circular economy

The comparative analysis of traditional take-make-dispose economic models versus circular systems that emphasise reuse, recycling, and sustainability.

Kangaroo economy concept

A sustainable economic model that prioritises regeneration and resource conservation over traditional growth-focused systems.

Keep products in use principles

Strategies focused on designing products for durability, repairability, and reuse, preventing premature disposal and minimising material waste.

Kelp-based packaging

The development of biodegradable packaging made from seaweed, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic and contributing to ocean health.

Kenaf as a sustainable resource

A fast-growing plant used as an alternative to wood-based paper, textiles, and bioplastics, promoting circular material use.

Key circular business models

Various approaches such as leasing, take-back programs, and product-as- a-service that help companies transition from a linear to a circular economy.

Key enablers of circular policy

The crucial policies, regulations, and financial incentives that drive the adoption of circular economy principles across industries.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) for circular economy

Metrics used to track and measure the success of circular initiatives, such as material efficiency, waste reduction, and product lifespan extension.

Kickstarting circular startups

Crowdfunding and investment initiatives that support new businesses developing circular products, services, and waste reduction solutions.

Kilometre-based leasing models

A pay-per-use business model where customers lease items (e.g., vehicles, appliances) based on actual usage, promoting longevity and efficient resource use.

Kilowatt-hour efficiency in circular systems

Energy-saving strategies in circular businesses, such as using renewable energy sources and optimising energy consumption in manufacturing.

Kinetic art from recycled materials

The creation of sculptures and installations that incorporate movement and repurposed materials, promoting awareness of circular design.

Kinetic energy recovery in circular systems

The use of regenerative braking and other technologies to capture and reuse energy, reducing overall resource consumption and energy waste.

Kinetic upcycling

The practice of converting mechanical motion into energy or repurposing moving parts from discarded machinery into new functional products.

Kitchen appliance refurbishment

The process of repairing and upgrading household appliances to extend their lifespan and prevent unnecessary e-waste.

Kitchen waste composting

The process of converting household food scraps into nutrient-rich compost, reducing organic waste sent to landfills and supporting soil health.

Knitwear circularity

The implementation of recycling and upcycling practices in the knitwear industry, ensuring wool and synthetic fibres are kept in circulation.

Knowledge sharing for circularity

The exchange of best practices, research, and innovations among businesses, governments, and communities to accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

Knowledge-based circular innovation

The integration of research, ai, and data analytics into circular economy strategies to improve resource efficiency and waste management.

Knowledge-driven material recovery

Using ai and advanced sorting technologies to identify and separate valuable materials for reuse and recycling in circular supply chains.

Kombucha leather (bacterial cellulose)

A sustainable leather alternative grown from bacteria and yeast, reducing the environmental impact of traditional leather production.

Lab-grown sustainable materials

Innovations such as lab-grown leather, plant-based textiles, and bioengineered construction materials that reduce reliance on natural resource extraction and waste.

Labelling for circularity

Product labelling that provides transparency about recyclability, material content, and circular economy benefits, helping consumers make informed, sustainable choices.

Landfill

A disposal method where waste is buried, often leading to environmental issues such as pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Landﬁll diversion

Strategies aimed at reducing the amount of waste sent to landﬁlls through recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy solutions (oven leading to environmental issues such as pollution and greenhouse gas emissions), supporting a more circular waste management system.

Lateral recycling partnerships

Collaborations between businesses and industries to share waste materials as resources, improving efficiency and minimising waste production.

Lease to own circular models

A business model that allows consumers to lease products with the option to purchase, extending product lifespans and reducing waste through reuse and refurbishment.

Leftover food redistribution

Platforms and programs that connect surplus food from restaurants, supermarkets, and households with food banks and charities to reduce food waste.

Library of Things

A community-based initiative that allows people to borrow tools, appliances, and other durable goods instead of purchasing, reducing overall consumption and material waste.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)

A methodology for evaluating the environmental impact of a product or service from raw material extraction to disposal, helping businesses design for sustainability and circularity.

Lightweighting in packaging and manufacturing

The practice of designing products and packaging to use less material while maintaining functionality, reducing resource consumption and transportation emissions.

Linear Economy

The traditional "take, make, dispose" economic model, which relies on extracting resources, producing goods, and discarding waste rather than reusing materials.

Liquid waste recovery

Processes that reclaim valuable materials or energy from wastewater, including nutrient recovery for agriculture and water recycling for industrial use.

Lithium-ion battery recycling

The recovery and reuse of valuable materials from batteries to reduce e- waste and ensure sustainable energy storage solutions in a circular economy.

Local loop recycling

A system where waste materials are collected, processed, and reused within the same geographic area, minimising transportation emissions and promoting regional sustainability.

Local repair networks

Community-based initiatives that facilitate product repairs, such as repair cafés and fix-it workshops, extending product lifespans and reducing e-waste.

Localised circular supply chains

Supply chains optimised for regional resource use, reducing reliance on global transportation and increasing material efficiency within local economies.

Long-lasting product design

A key principle of circular economy manufacturing, ensuring that products are durable, repairable, and upgradeable to minimise waste.

Low-carbon circular economy

An economic model that integrates circularity with carbon reduction strategies, such as renewable energy use, carbon capture, and sustainable product design.

Maintain

To preserve the value, function, and longevity of products through care, repair, and refurbishment, reducing the need for new resources.

Managed circular forestry

Sustainable forest management (sfm) practices that ensure trees are harvested responsibly, with reforestation and waste wood recycling efforts maintaining a closed-loop system.

Manufactured sand from recycled materials

The use of crushed concrete, glass, and other recycled materials to create sustainable alternatives to natural sand in construction projects.

Manufacturing waste recovery

The process of reclaiming and reusing waste generated during production, such as scrap metal, defective parts, and excess materials, to improve resource efficiency.

Marine plastic recovery and upcycling

The collection of ocean plastic waste for transformation into high-value products, such as clothing, shoes, and construction materials, promoting environmental sustainability.

Market for secondary raw materials

The trading and selling of recycled materials as viable alternatives to virgin resources, supporting circular supply chains and reducing extraction pressures.

Mass customisation for circularity

A manufacturing approach that produces customised goods efficiently while minimising waste by using digital fabrication, 3d printing, and on-demand production.

Material Circularity Indicator (MCI)

A metric used to assess how eﬀectively a product or system retains materials through its lifecycle through reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing, guiding circular design improvements.

Material Extraction

The process of obtaining raw materials from the Earth, often associated with environmental degradation and resource depletion.

Material flow analysis (MFA)

A scientific method used to track the movement of materials within a system, helping businesses and policymakers optimise resource use and reduce waste.

Material substitution for sustainability

The practice of replacing non-renewable or toxic materials with sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable plastics, plant-based textiles, or recycled metals.

Mechanical recycling

A process that breaks down materials like plastics and textiles into their raw form without altering their chemical structure, allowing them to be reused in new products.

Metal recycling and circular economy

The recovery and reprocessing of metals like aluminium, copper, and steel, which can be recycled indefinitely without degrading, reducing the need for virgin mining.

Minimalism and circular consumption

A lifestyle philosophy that aligns with circular economy principles by encouraging mindful consumption, prioritising quality over quantity, and reducing waste.

Mobility-as-a-service (maas)

A business model that replaces private vehicle ownership with shared transportation options, such as car-sharing, bike rentals, and public transit, reducing resource consumption.

Modular furniture for circular living

Furniture designed with interchangeable parts that can be repaired, reconfigured, or upgraded over time, preventing unnecessary waste and extending usability.

Multi-stakeholder collaboration in circular economy

Partnerships between governments, businesses, and communities to implement circular economy policies, resource recovery initiatives, and waste reduction programs.

Multi-use packaging

Packaging designed for multiple uses, such as reusable glass bottles, refillable containers, or modular shipping solutions, reducing single-use packaging waste.

Nanotechnology for circular solutions

The use of nanoscale materials and innovations to improve recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable material development, such as self-cleaning surfaces and biodegradable nanoplastics.

Natural capital and circular economy

The world’s stock of natural resources (e.g., forests, water, soil, air) that circular strategies aim to preserve through sustainable resource management and regeneration.

Natural fibre recycling

The process of collecting and reprocessing textiles made from cotton, wool, hemp, and linen to reduce fashion waste and decrease the environmental impact of new fabric production.

Natural Resources

Materials found in nature, such as water, minerals, and forests, that are essential for economic and environmental sustainability.

Natural Systems

The interconnected ecosystems that support life on Earth, including air, water, and biodiversity, which must be protected to ensure long-term sustainability.

Near-zero waste manufacturing

A production system that aims to eliminate waste by reusing materials, optimising processes, and integrating closed-loop recycling systems.

Neighbourhood circular initiatives

Community-led programs that promote sharing, repairing, and reusing goods locally, such as tool libraries, clothing swaps, and composting hubs.

Net positive circular economy

A sustainability approach that goes beyond minimising harm, aiming to regenerate natural ecosystems, restore biodiversity, and create more resources than are consumed.

Net-zero circular cities

Urban planning initiatives that integrate waste reduction, renewable energy, efficient water use, and sustainable infrastructure to create cities with no net environmental impact.

Networked circular innovation hubs

Collaborations between universities, research centres, and businesses to develop, test, and scale up circular economy technologies and solutions.

Networked circular supply chains

Digitally connected supply chains that enable real-time tracking, optimisation, and collaboration to improve resource efficiency and waste reduction.

New business models for circularity

Emerging economic models, such as product-as-a-service, leasing, and take-back schemes, that replace linear consumption with sustainable, long-term value creation.

Niche markets for upcycled products

Growing industries focused on transforming discarded materials into high-value goods, such as luxury fashion from ocean plastics or furniture from reclaimed wood.

Non-extractive material sourcing

The procurement of materials from recycling and waste recovery instead of virgin extraction, reducing the strain on natural ecosystems and lowering emissions.

Non-fossil energy in circular economy

The integration of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind, hydro) into circular systems to eliminate fossil fuel dependence and reduce carbon footprints.

Nutrient cycling in food systems

The reuse of organic byproducts (e.g., coffee grounds, fruit peels) to create secondary food products or animal feed, reducing overall food waste.

Nutrient loop closure in agriculture

Circular farming practices that recycle organic matter (e.g., compost, manure) back into the soil, maintaining fertility and reducing chemical fertiliser reliance.

Nutrient recovery from wastewater

The process of extracting valuable nutrients (e.g., phosphorus, nitrogen) from sewage and agricultural runoff for reuse in fertilisers, reducing dependency on chemical fertilisers.

Ocean plastic recovery

Initiatives focused on collecting and recycling plastic waste from marine environments, preventing further pollution and transforming waste into reusable materials for new products.

Ocean-based bioeconomy

The use of marine resources, such as seaweed farming for sustainable food and materials, to support circular economy initiatives while preserving ocean ecosystems.

Off-grid circular energy solutions

Decentralised renewable energy systems such as solar microgrids and biogas digesters that support sustainable communities without relying on traditional power grids.

On-demand manufacturing for waste reduction

A production model where items are made only when needed, reducing overproduction, excess inventory, and resource waste in industries like fashion and consumer goods.

Open-loop recycling

A recycling process where materials are repurposed into diﬀerent types of products instead of being recycled into the same product, extending their lifecycle but oven with some quality degradation.

Open-source circular design

The sharing of product designs, material databases, and circular innovation blueprints to encourage widespread adoption of sustainable production and reduce waste.

Operational circularity

The integration of circular economy principles into daily business operations, such as waste minimisation, closed-loop supply chains, and sustainable procurement practices.

Operational waste tracking

The use of digital tools, ai, and iot sensors to monitor waste generation, identify inefficiencies, and enhance resource optimisation in industrial and commercial settings.

Optimised logistics for reverse supply chains

Efficient transportation and collection systems for returned, refurbished, and recycled goods, ensuring seamless circularity in product life cycles.

Optimised packaging for circularity

The development of minimal, compostable, reusable, or recyclable packaging solutions to reduce waste and encourage circular packaging systems.

Optimised resource efficiency

The practice of using fewer materials and energy in production processes while maximising the value of resources through reuse, recycling, and circular business models.

Organic waste management

Strategies for composting, anaerobic digestion, and bioenergy production to divert food scraps, yard waste, and other biodegradable materials from landfills and return nutrients to the soil.

Organic-based biodegradable materials

Materials derived from plant-based sources, such as algae- based plastics or mushroom packaging, that decompose naturally and reduce reliance on fossil fuel- derived materials.

Overconsumption awareness and reduction

Consumer education campaigns that promote mindful purchasing, waste reduction, and sustainable consumption habits to reduce environmental impact.

Ownership-to-access Swift

A circular business model where consumers use products through leasing, renting, or sharing instead of owning, promoting sustainability and reducing material consumption.

Packaging Waste

Materials discarded after use in product packaging, requiring circular solutions such as reduction, reuse, and recycling.

Packaging-free retail

A growing movement in which consumers bring their own reusable containers or purchase bulk goods without disposable packaging, significantly reducing waste.

Paper recycling innovations

Advanced technologies that improve the efficiency and quality of paper recycling, enabling multiple reuse cycles and reducing deforestation.

Permaculture in circular agriculture

A farming approach that mimics natural ecosystems by integrating regenerative agriculture, waste reduction, and biodiversity conservation to create sustainable food systems.

Phosphorus recovery from wastewater

The extraction of phosphorus from sewage and agricultural runoff for reuse in fertilisers, reducing dependency on finite phosphate rock resources.

Plant-based bioplastics

Sustainable alternatives to conventional petroleum-based plastics, derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, and algae, which are biodegradable or compostable.

Plastic Packaging

Single-use or reusable plastic materials used to protect and transport products, requiring innovative solutions to reduce waste and improve recyclability.

Plastic upcycling

The transformation of used plastics into higher-value products, such as converting waste pet bottles into textiles, reducing plastic pollution and extending material utility.

Pollution prevention through circularity

Strategies that eliminate waste and harmful emissions at the source by redesigning products, implementing closed-loop manufacturing, and reducing toxic materials.

Post-consumer waste recycling

The process of collecting and reprocessing materials from used products, such as plastic bottles, aluminium cans, and paper, to create new products and reduce waste.

Post-industrial waste utilisation

The repurposing of manufacturing waste, such as metal shavings, fabric scraps, and chemical byproducts, to create new products and improve resource efficiency.

Precautionary principle in circular economy

A sustainability approach that prioritises reducing environmental harm by designing out waste, avoiding hazardous materials, and implementing safe, long-term solutions.

Producer responsibility for circularity

The obligation of manufacturers to take back, recycle, or properly dispose of their products at the end of life, often mandated under extended producer responsibility (epr) laws.

Product Life Extension

A strategy that prolongs the usability of products through repair, refurbishment, and repurposing, reducing overall waste.

Product lifecycle extension

Strategies such as repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing that prolong the usability of products, minimising waste and reducing the demand for virgin resources.

Product modularisation

The design of products with interchangeable parts that allow for easy upgrades, repairs, and customisation, extending their usability and reducing electronic and material waste.

Product repairability index

A rating system that evaluates how easily a product can be repaired, encouraging manufacturers to design durable goods and informing consumers about repair-friendly options.

Production Consumption

The relationship between how goods are manufactured and consumed, influences waste generation and sustainability efforts.

Products Materials

The physical substances used to create goods, requiring sustainable sourcing and efficient management to minimise environmental impact.

Public procurement for circular economy

Government policies that prioritise purchasing sustainable, recyclable, or refurbished products, encouraging businesses to adopt circular practices.

Pyrolysis for waste-to-energy

A thermal decomposition process that converts organic waste, including plastics and biomass, into fuels, oils, and syngas, reducing landfill dependency while recovering energy.

Quality control in recycled materials

Ensuring that materials recovered from waste streams meet industry standards for reuse, allowing them to replace virgin materials in production.

Quality enhancement in upcycled goods

The process of refining or improving repurposed materials so they match or exceed the quality of their original form, increasing consumer trust in circular products.

Quality over quantty in consumpton

A principle encouraging consumers to prioritise durable, well- made products over disposable, low-quality goods, reducing waste and promoting circularity.

Quantification of circular benefits

The measurement of circular economy impacts using data analytics, lifecycle assessments, and sustainability reporting to demonstrate environmental and financial gains.

Quantum computing for circular economy optimisation

The potential use of quantum computing in improving resource efficiency, optimising recycling processes, and solving complex sustainability challenges.

Quantum dot applications in circular energy

Emerging nanotechnology that enhances solar panel efficiency and energy storage solutions, supporting renewable energy integration into circular systems.

Quarry waste repurposing

The circular use of leftover materials from stone and mineral extraction in construction, landscaping, or road building to minimise environmental impact.

Quarterly circular economy audits

Regular assessments conducted by businesses to evaluate waste reduction efforts, resource efficiency, and circularity improvements in their operations.

Quasi-circular business models

Hybrid business approaches that integrate circular economy elements (e.g., leasing, take-back programs) but still rely partially on linear production methods.

Quaternary recycling

The process of converting waste materials into energy through incineration, often referred to as energy recovery, helping reduce landfill waste while generating power.

Quenching energy recovery

The use of heat exchange technologies to capture and repurpose excess heat from industrial processes, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

Quick composting technologies

Advanced composting solutions that accelerate the breakdown of organic waste, producing nutrient-rich compost in shorter timeframes for agricultural or urban applications.

Quick disassembly design

A product design approach that ensures items can be easily taken apart for repair, refurbishment, or recycling, improving material recovery rates.

Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) in circular supply chains

A lean production strategy that reduces waste and improves efficiency by minimising lead times and optimising resource allocation.

Quiet revolution of circular economy

The gradual, systemic shift in industries and consumer behaviour towards sustainability, driven by innovations, regulations, and awareness campaigns.

Quorum-based decision-making for circular policies

Collaborative governance models where multiple stakeholders (e.g., businesses, governments, ngos) work together to implement circular economy regulations.

Quota systems for recycled content

Regulatory measures that require a minimum percentage of recycled materials in new products to drive demand for secondary raw materials and reduce reliance on virgin resources.

Raw Materials

Unprocessed natural substances used in manufacturing, such as metals, wood, and cotton, which can be finite or renewable.

Reclaimed materials

Resources salvaged from deconstructed buildings, old furniture, or discarded goods that are repurposed to reduce the demand for virgin materials.

Recommerce (resale market)

The buying and selling of second-hand goods, such as clothing, electronics, and furniture, to extend product life and reduce unnecessary consumption.

Recyclability

The ability of a material or product to be collected, processed, and reintroduced into the production cycle without loss of quality.

Recycle

The process of converting waste materials into new products, conserving natural resources and reducing environmental impact.

Recycled content mandates

Government policies requiring a minimum percentage of recycled materials in new products, driving demand for secondary raw materials and reducing waste.

Recycled Materials

Resources that have been processed from waste and reintroduced into production, reducing reliance on virgin materials.

Recycling

The collection and processing of used materials into new products, preventing waste from ending up in landfills and reducing reliance on virgin resources.

Redesign for circularity

The process of modifying products to be more durable, repairable, and recyclable, ensuring they contribute to a circular rather than a linear economy.

Reduce Waste

Minimising material loss by designing efficient processes, rethinking consumption patterns, and prioritising resource conservation.

Refurbishment/repair

The process of repairing and restoring used products to extend their lifespan, reduce waste, and make them suitable for resale or reuse and promoting a circular economy.

Regenerative agriculture

Farming practices that restore soil health, enhance biodiversity, and recycle organic waste, creating a closed-loop agricultural system that reduces environmental impact.

Remanufacturing

A high-value recovery process where used products or components are disassembled, repaired, and reassembled to meet original performance standards, reducing the need for virgin materials.

Renewable Energy

Power sourced from naturally replenishing elements like wind, solar, and hydro, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Renewable energy in circular economy

The integration of sustainable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro, into production and recycling processes to reduce carbon footprints.

Repair

Restoring damaged or worn-out products to extend their usability, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

Repair economy

An economic system that encourages product longevity through repair services, spare parts availability, and consumer education on fixing rather than replacing items.

Repurposing waste streams

The transformation of industrial, agricultural, or municipal waste into new materials or products, preventing landfill disposal and closing resource loops.

Resource efficiency

The practice of optimising material and energy use throughout a product’s lifecycle to minimise waste, lower costs, and reduce environmental impact.

Resource recovery parks

Dedicated facilities where waste materials are collected, sorted, and processed for reuse, recycling, or energy generation, improving circular waste management.

Responsible sourcing

The procurement of raw materials in an ethical and sustainable manner, ensuring fair labour practices, environmental protection, and circular economy principles.

Returnable packaging

Packaging solutions that can be reused multiple times, such as glass milk bottles, steel containers, or refillable pouches, reducing packaging waste.

Reuse

Extending the life of products and materials by using them multiple times, decreasing waste generation and environmental impact.

Reuse economy

A system that prioritises the repeated use of products and packaging through take- back schemes, reusable containers, and upcycling, reducing single-use waste, decreasing waste generation and environmental impact.

Reverse engineering for sustainability

The practice of deconstructing existing products to understand their composition and redesign them for better recyclability and circularity.

Reverse Logistics

A process that manages product returns, refurbishment, and recycling, ensuring materials re-enter the value chain rather than becoming waste.

Reverse logistics

A supply chain process that focuses on returning products from consumers back to manufacturers for recycling, refurbishment, or proper disposal, ensuring resource efficiency.

Scrap metal recycling

The process of collecting and reprocessing metal waste from industries and consumers to create new products, reducing mining and energy use.

Second-hand market growth

The increasing demand for pre-owned goods in industries like fashion, furniture, and electronics, promoting reuse and reducing demand for new production.

Second-life applications

The repurposing of used products or components for new functions, eg turning old ev batteries into energy storage units, reducing waste and extending material utility.

Secondary raw materials

Recovered materials from recycling processes that can replace virgin raw materials in production, helping to close the resource loop and reduce environmental impact.

Service Economy

A business model that shifts focus from product ownership to service-based solutions, reducing material consumption and waste.

Sharing Economy

A system that promotes shared use of goods and services, reducing demand for new products and supporting circular practices.

Sharing economy/service economy

A business model that promotes access over ownership by enabling peer-to-peer sharing of goods and services (e.g., car-sharing, tool libraries), reducing resource/material consumption and waste.

Single Use

Products designed for one-time use before disposal, often contributing to excessive waste and pollution.

Single-use plastics ban

Regulations that restrict the use of disposable plastic products to encourage the adoption of reusable and recyclable alternatives.

Slow fashion movement

A sustainable fashion approach that promotes quality over quantity, ethical production, and circular business models like resale, rental, and repair services.

Smart labelling for circularity

The use of qr codes, rfid tags, or blockchain to provide consumers with clear information on product sustainability, recyclability, and return programs.

Smart waste management

The use of digital tools, ai, and iot-enabled sensors to optimise waste collection, sorting, and recycling, improving efficiency and reducing landfill dependency.

Social circular enterprises

Businesses that integrate circular economy principles with social impact, such as employing marginalised groups to work in recycling or repair industries.

Solar panel recycling

The recovery of valuable materials, such as silicon and rare metals, from decommissioned solar panels, ensuring circularity in renewable energy infrastructure.

Substitution of virgin materials

The replacement of newly extracted raw materials with recycled or bio-based alternatives, reducing environmental degradation and carbon emissions.

Supply chain circularity

The redesign of supply chains to prioritise material recovery, reuse, and sustainable sourcing, ensuring resources remain in circulation as long as possible.

Sustainable agriculture in circular economy

Farming practices that minimise waste, recycle nutrients, and use renewable resources to create closed-loop food systems.

Sustainable business models

Business strategies, such as leasing, take-back programs, and product-as- a-service, that support circular economy principles by extending product lifecycles and minimising waste.

Sustainable packaging

The development of packaging solutions that are biodegradable, compostable, or reusable, reducing plastic pollution and promoting closed-loop material use.

Sustainable product design

The development of products with durability, recyclability, and minimal environmental impact in mind, ensuring long-term usability and easy material recovery.

Sustainable urban planning

The integration of circular economy principles into city design, including green infrastructure, waste reduction, and energy-efficient buildings.

Sustainable water management

The application of circular economy principles to water use, including rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and water-efficient industrial processes.

Symbiotic industrial networks (industrial symbiosis)

Collaboration between businesses where waste or byproducts from one industry serve as raw materials for another, improving resource efficiency.

Take-back programs

Initiatives where companies collect used products from customers for recycling, refurbishment, or remanufacturing, ensuring materials remain in circulation and reducing waste.

Technical cycle in circular economy

A system in which non-biodegradable materials, such as metals and plastics, are continuously reused, repaired, and recycled instead of being discarded.

Technological innovation for circularity

The use of ai, robotics, and smart manufacturing to optimise resource efficiency, reduce waste, and enable closed-loop production systems.

Tenant circularity programs

Corporate and residential initiatives that encourage waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable energy use among tenants in commercial and residential properties.

Tertiary recycling (chemical recycling)

A process that breaks down plastics and other complex materials into their original chemical components, allowing for high-quality material recovery and reuse.

Textile recycling

The process of recovering fibres from used clothing and fabric waste to create new garments, reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion and minimising textile landfill waste.

The Butterfly Diagram

A visual representation of the circular economy, showing the flow of biological and technical materials through reuse, recycling, and regeneration.

The Iceberg Model

A systems-thinking tool that highlights how visible environmental issues stem from deeper, underlying systemic problems.

Thermal energy recovery

The process of capturing and repurposing excess heat from industrial and energy-generation processes to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

Tidal energy in circular systems

The integration of renewable tidal energy into circular economy frameworks to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote long-term sustainability.

Timber reclamation

The process of recovering wood from deconstructed buildings, furniture, and manufacturing waste for reuse in new construction and furniture design.

Time-based leasing models

Business models where products (e.g., electronics, furniture, appliances) are rented for a fixed period, ensuring extended use and efficient resource allocation.

Toxic waste reduction strategies

Measures aimed at eliminating or safely managing hazardous materials in industries such as electronics, chemicals, and construction, preventing environmental contamination.

Traceability in circular supply chains

The use of blockchain, qr codes, and digital tracking systems to monitor material flows, ensuring transparency and accountability in recycling and resource recovery.

Transitioning to a circular economy

The process of shifting from a linear (take-make-dispose) economy to a circular one by implementing sustainable policies, redesigning products, and adopting circular business models.

Transparency in circular business practices

The commitment of companies to openly disclose sustainability efforts, material sourcing, and product lifecycles to enhance consumer trust and regulatory compliance.

Transportation circularity

Sustainable mobility solutions, such as electric vehicle battery recycling, car- sharing platforms, and modular vehicle design, reducing emissions and material waste.

Trash to treasure initiatives

Upcycling and creative reuse programs that transform waste materials into valuable products, promoting sustainability and circular design principles.

Triple bottom line in circular Economy

A business framework that measures success based on three factors: people (social impact), planet (environmental responsibility), and profit (economic sustainability).

Universal design for circularity

A product design philosophy that ensures items are easily repairable, upgradeable, and recyclable, extending their useful life and reducing waste.

Unused resource redistribution

Platforms and systems that connect surplus materials, food, or goods with those who need them, minimising waste and supporting local economies.

Unwanted textile recovery

Programs that collect and repurpose discarded clothing and textiles, turning them into new fashion items, insulation materials, or industrial rags.

Upcycling

The process of creatively repurposing waste materials into higher-value products without breaking them down into raw materials, reducing waste and extending product lifespans.

Upgradable electronics

The design of electronic devices with modular components that can be easily replaced or improved, reducing e-waste and extending product life.

Upgraded recycling technologies

Innovations that improve material recovery rates and recycling efficiency, such as ai-powered sorting systems and chemical recycling processes.

Urban agriculture for circularity

The integration of vertical farming, hydroponics, and community gardens in urban environments to reduce food waste, localise production, and recycle nutrients.

Urban circular economy hubs

Community centres and coworking spaces that promote repair workshops, sharing platforms, and circular business collaborations within cities.

Urban composting initiatives

City-based programs that collect and process organic waste from households and businesses into nutrient-rich compost, reducing landfill waste and improving soil health.

Urban eco-districts

Neighbourhoods designed with circular economy principles, incorporating sustainable architecture/infrastructure, zero-waste initiatives, and closed-loop water and energy systems. a community focussing on climate adaptation and social equity promoting resource efficiency and reducing waste and environmental impact while enhancing quality of life.

Urban mining

The recovery of valuable metals and materials from discarded electronics, buildings, and infrastructure, reducing the need for virgin resource extraction.

Urban waste-to-energy systems

The conversion of municipal waste into electricity, heat, or biofuels through incineration, anaerobic digestion, or gasification, reducing landfill dependency.

Used battery repurposing

The process of giving second-life applications to old batteries, such as using ev batteries for energy storage in homes or businesses.

Used cooking oil recycling

The collection and conversion of waste cooking oils into biodiesel or other bio-based products, reducing pollution and supporting renewable energy solutions.

Used product resale

The practice of selling pre-owned items, such as refurbished electronics, second- hand clothing, and furniture, promoting reuse and minimising waste.

User-centric circular business models

Consumer-driven approaches that encourage participation in circular economy practices, such as deposit-return schemes, sharing platforms, and subscription services.

Utility efficiency in circular systems

The optimisation of energy and water use in circular business models through smart metering, renewable energy integration, and waste heat recovery.

Utility-as-a-service (UaaS)

A circular business model where companies provide energy, water, or waste management services based on usage rather than ownership, encouraging efficiency and sustainability.

Vacant building repurposing

The transformation of abandoned structures into new housing, workspaces, or community centres, reducing construction waste and urban sprawl.

Vacuum deposition recycling

A technology used in recovering valuable metals from thin film coatings, such as those used in electronics and solar panels, promoting material circularity.

Vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) for energy efficiency

Highly efficient insulation technology that reduces energy consumption in buildings, refrigeration, and transportation.

Value chain circularity

The integration of circular principles throughout the entire supply chain, ensuring materials and products are reused, refurbished, or recycled at every stage.

Value retention processes

Strategies such as remanufacturing, refurbishment, repair, and direct reuse that extend product lifecycles, retain material value, and minimise waste.

Vehicle remanufacturing

The process of refurbishing and upgrading old vehicles with new components to extend their lifespan, reduce manufacturing emissions, and minimise waste.

Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems

A circular energy innovation where electric vehicles supply power back to the grid during peak demand, optimising energy use and reducing waste.

Vermicomposting for organic waste

A natural composting method that uses worms to break down food scraps and organic matter, creating nutrient-rich soil amendments and reducing landfill waste.

Versatile materials for reuse

The development of adaptable materials that can be repurposed for multiple uses, such as modular construction components and multi-use packaging.

Vertical farming for sustainability

A method of growing food in stacked layers or urban environments using hydroponics or aeroponics, reducing land use, water consumption, and food waste.

Vintage economy and second-hand markets

The growth of resale markets for fashion, furniture, and electronics, promoting reuse and extending product lifespans.

Vinyl recycling initiatives

The process of collecting and reprocessing pvc materials used in flooring, piping, and other applications, preventing harmful waste accumulation.

Virgin material substitution

The replacement of newly extracted raw materials with recycled, reclaimed, or bio-based alternatives, reducing resource depletion and environmental impact.

Virgin Materials

Newly extracted raw resources that have not been previously used or processed, often requiring high energy consumption for production.

Virtual circular platforms

Online marketplaces and digital tools that facilitate the exchange, resale, or leasing of used goods and materials, reducing waste and promoting reuse.

Virtual power plants (VPPs) for circular energy

The aggregation of decentralised renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into a network that optimises energy distribution and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.

Voluntary carbon offsetting in circular economy

Private sector efforts to reduce environmental impact by investing in carbon offset projects, such as reforestation and sustainable energy initiatives.

Voluntary producer responsibility

Corporate sustainability commitments where businesses proactively take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, even in the absence of government mandates.

Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS)

Industry-driven certifications that promote circular economy practices, such as cradle-to-cradle certification and fairtrade standards.

Voluntary take-back programs

Corporate initiatives where companies encourage customers to return used products for refurbishment, recycling, or resale, enhancing circularity.

Waste Hierarchy

A prioritisation framework that ranks waste management strategies, emphasising prevention, reuse, and recycling before disposal.

Waste hierarchy

A framework that prioritises waste management strategies in order of sustainability: prevention, reduction, reuse, recycling, recovery, with disposal as a last resort.

Waste mining

The extraction of valuable materials from landfills and industrial waste streams, recovering metals, plastics, and other reusable components to support a circular economy.

Waste of Finite Resources

The unnecessary depletion of non-renewable materials, emphasising the need for circular solutions and sustainable management.

Waste prevention strategies

Policies and practices that reduce the creation of waste at its source, such as product redesign, packaging reduction, and extended producer responsibility (epr).

Waste to Energy

A process that converts non-recyclable waste into energy, such as electricity or heat, reducing landfill dependence and maximising resource recovery.

Waste trading platforms

Online marketplaces that connect businesses to buy, sell, or exchange industrial byproducts and surplus materials, preventing waste and promoting resource efficiency.

Waste valorisation

The process of transforming waste materials into valuable products, such as converting food waste into biofuels or repurposing industrial byproducts into new materials.

Waste-free manufacturing

The implementation of production processes that minimise or eliminate waste through resource efficiency, material substitution, and closed-loop systems.

Waste-reducing business models

Economic approaches that minimise waste generation, such as product leasing, modular design, and closed-loop production systems.

Waste-to-energy (WtE)

A process that converts non-recyclable waste into usable energy, such as electricity or heat, reducing landfill dependence/waste and supporting renewable energy systems.

Water circularity

The sustainable management of water resources through recycling, reuse, and closed-loop systems in industries, agriculture, and urban environments.

Water-energy nexus in circular systems

The integration of water and energy conservation strategies, such as using wastewater for cooling or recovering heat from industrial processes.

Wearable tech circularity

The development of repairable, upgradable, and recyclable wearable electronics to prevent e-waste and encourage sustainable innovation in consumer technology.

Wet waste composting

The process of converting organic waste, such as food scraps and plant matter, into nutrient-rich compost for soil improvement, reducing methane emissions from landfills.

White goods refurbishment

The repair and resale of large household appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners) to extend their lifespan and minimise electronic waste.

Wireless sensor networks for waste management

The use of iot-enabled sensors in smart bins and waste collection systems to optimise recycling, reduce overflow, and improve sorting efficiency.

Wood recycling and repurposing

The recovery and reuse of wood from construction, demolition, and discarded furniture to reduce deforestation and promote circular building practices.

Workforce training for circular jobs

Education and skill development programs that prepare workers for employment in recycling, repair, remanufacturing, and other circular economy sectors.

Wraparound circular economy policies

Comprehensive regulatory frameworks that incorporate waste reduction, recycling incentives, sustainable procurement, and extended product responsibility.

X-ray equipment refurbishment and resale

The remanufacturing of medical imaging devices to extend their lifecycle, reduce electronic waste, and provide affordable healthcare equipment.

X-ray film recycling

The process of recovering silver and plastic from old x-ray films, reducing hazardous waste and supporting circular material recovery in healthcare and photography.

Xenobiotic biodegradation

The process of breaking down synthetic and non-natural compounds (e.g., plastics, pesticides) using microorganisms, supporting waste reduction and pollution control in a circular economy.

Xenobiotic pollutant removal

Advanced filtration and bioremediation techniques that eliminate persistent pollutants from wastewater, ensuring cleaner water cycles and sustainable waste management.

Xenobiotic waste tracking systems

Digital monitoring solutions that track hazardous synthetic waste through blockchain or iot, ensuring responsible disposal and circular resource management.

Xenobiotic-free product design

The elimination of harmful synthetic chemicals in product manufacturing, ensuring safer reuse, recycling, and biodegradability in circular systems.

Xenon gas recovery and reuse

The capture and purification of xenon gas from industrial and medical applications, preventing waste and promoting circular resource use in high-tech industries.

Xenon recovery in semiconductor manufacturing

The collection and reuse of xenon gas in microchip production, promoting sustainable practices in the electronics industry.

Xenon-based energy efficiency innovations

The use of xenon gas in energy-efficient lighting and insulation materials, reducing energy consumption and improving circular energy practices.

Xeriscaping for water conservation

A landscaping approach that reduces water use by incorporating drought-resistant plants, improving sustainability in urban planning and circular water management.

Xerogel materials for water purification

Advanced materials that enhance water filtration and desalination, enabling the circular reuse of water in industrial and urban environments.

Xerophytic crop utilisation for circular agriculture

The cultivation of drought-resistant plants (e.g., agave, prickly pear) that require minimal water and can be used in sustainable food, fibre, and biofuel production.

Xerothermic composting

A high-temperature composting process that accelerates organic waste breakdown, reducing landfill dependency and improving soil health in agricultural systems.

Xylitol from agricultural waste

The production of natural sweeteners like xylitol from crop residues, supporting the circular use of biomass and reducing food industry waste.

Xyloglucan-based sustainable packaging

A biodegradable material derived from plant cell walls, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic packaging and supporting a circular packaging economy.

Xylooligosaccharides (XOS) from biomass waste

Prebiotic fibres extracted from agricultural byproducts, contributing to circular food systems by utilising waste materials for nutritional benefits.

Xylose-based bioplastics

A bio-based alternative to petroleum plastics derived from plant sugars, contributing to the reduction of fossil fuel dependence and improving material circularity.

Yak fibre as a sustainable textile

The use of yak wool as an eco-friendly alternative to cashmere, promoting ethical sourcing and sustainable material use in the fashion industry.

Yard-to-table food systems

The integration of urban gardens, community farms, and food waste recovery programs to create localised, circular food networks.

Yarn recycling in textile circularity

The process of reclaiming fibres from old garments and textile waste to produce new yarn, reducing demand for virgin materials and minimising fashion waste.

Year-end circular audits

Annual assessments conducted by businesses to evaluate their waste reduction efforts, resource efficiency, and circular economy performance.

Year-round energy efficiency measures

Circular strategies in construction and infrastructure that optimise heating, cooling, and energy consumption across all seasons.

Year-round urban farming

The use of hydroponics, vertical farming, and controlled environment agriculture to produce food sustainably in cities, reducing food miles and improving resource efficiency.

Yellow grease recycling

The collection and repurposing of used cooking oils and fats into biodiesel or other bio-based products, reducing waste and supporting renewable energy initiatives.

Yellow water recycling

The process of safely treating and reusing urine from wastewater systems for agricultural fertiliser, closing the nutrient loop and reducing water consumption.

Yield optimisation in circular agriculture

Strategies that maximise food production efficiency while minimising waste, including regenerative farming, precision agriculture, and closed-loop nutrient cycling.

Yield-based leasing models

Business models where companies provide equipment, tools, or vehicles based on performance metrics (e.g., efficiency, durability) rather than outright ownership, promoting resource optimisation.

Yield-driven resource allocation

The strategic use of data and ai to optimise material and energy use in industries, ensuring minimal waste and maximum efficiency.

Yield-enhancing soil amendments from waste

The production of biochar, compost, and other soil conditioners from organic waste to improve agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner.

Yogurt container recycling initiatives

Specialised programs that collect and recycle plastic yogurt cups, integrating them into circular packaging systems.

Yogurt whey upcycling

The reuse of whey, a byproduct of yogurt and cheese production, in food products, animal feed, or bioplastics, preventing food waste and promoting circular food systems.

Young entrepreneurs in circular economy

The rise of startups and innovators developing sustainable business models that prioritise waste reduction, recycling, and circular product design.

Youth engagement in circular economy

Initiatives that educate and involve younger generations in sustainability efforts, such as repair workshops, recycling programs, and eco-conscious consumer habits.

Youth-led circular innovations

New technologies, social enterprises, and grassroots movements driven by young innovators focused on solving waste management and sustainability challenges.

Yttrium recycling for electronics

The recovery and reuse of yttrium, a rare earth element used in led screens and high-tech applications, reducing reliance on mining and supporting circular electronics.

Zein-based bioplastics

A sustainable plastic alternative derived from corn protein (zein), offering biodegradable packaging solutions that support circular material flows.

Zero carbon supply chains

Logistics and production networks designed to eliminate carbon emissions through renewable energy, low-impact transportation, and circular resource management.

Zero emissions manufacturing

Industrial processes that eliminate waste and pollution by using renewable energy, closed-loop water systems, and resource-efficient production methods.

Zero landfill initiatives

Corporate and municipal programs designed to divert all waste from landfills through recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy solutions.

Zero packaging retail

A business model where products are sold without disposable packaging, often using refillable containers and bulk distribution to reduce plastic waste.

Zero waste cities

Urban areas that implement comprehensive waste reduction strategies, including composting, refill stations, circular procurement, and community recycling programs.

Zero waste construction practices

The reduction and reuse of building materials in construction projects through modular designs, prefabrication, and deconstruction techniques.

Zero waste event planning

The organisation of sustainable events that minimise disposable materials, incorporate compostable alternatives, and promote recycling and reuse.

Zero waste philosophy

A waste management strategy that aims to eliminate waste by redesigning production, consumption, and disposal systems to ensure all materials are reused, recycled, or composted.

Zero waste textiles

Fashion and textile industry efforts to reduce fabric waste through design techniques like pattern optimisation, fabric recycling, and garment repurposing.

Zero waste-to-energy conflict management

Strategies to balance waste-to-energy solutions with the principles of zero waste, ensuring that energy recovery does not discourage recycling and reuse.

Zero-emission delivery systems

Logistics solutions that incorporate electric vehicles, bike couriers, and other carbon-neutral transportation methods to support sustainable last-mile delivery.

Zinc recovery from e-waste

The extraction and reuse of zinc from discarded electronics and appliances, reducing mining dependence and contributing to sustainable metal supply chains.

Zinc recycling in circular economy

The recovery and reuse of zinc from batteries, galvanisation processes, and industrial applications, reducing mining and promoting material circularity.

Zinc-air battery circularity

The development of rechargeable zinc-air batteries that are recyclable and less harmful to the environment, supporting circular energy storage solutions.

Zipped modular clothing

Apparel designed with interchangeable and detachable parts, allowing for repairs, upgrades, and customisation to extend garment lifecycles and reduce textile waste.

Zonal composting systems

The implementation of decentralised composting facilities in urban and rural areas to efficiently manage organic waste and produce nutrient-rich soil amendments.

Zoo waste repurposing

The use of animal waste from zoos as compost, biofuel, or agricultural fertiliser, closing the loop on organic waste management.

Reconomy Circular Economy Glossary