A key tenet of the “circular economy” sustainability paradigm is the reduction in reliance on virgin materials. The goal is to create high-functioning products that flow from cradle to cradle instead of cradle to grave – that is, a closed-loop system, where products are reused rather than disposed of, as opposed to a linear, single-use oriented system. This goal is aptly captured by the classic chasing arrows symbol. Recycling helps build our economic, natural, and social capital, using fewer resources and protecting natural resources as well as impacted ecological systems. It can have positive social impacts as well. This article explores the continued role of recycling in supporting the circular economy.
