Adopting Circularity in Business
Strategies for a Resilient Future
As countless companies prepare for a future shaped by the goals of the European Green Deal, the push toward greater circularity has never been more important.
It's undeniable that modern circular business practices — cutting down waste, using resources more efficiently, and ensuring materials are reused — are crucial for resource conservation and reducing emissions.
The Green Deal mandates higher recycling rates and aims for climate neutrality by 2050, with an intermediate goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030.
Additionally, the looming threat of resource scarcity underscores the need for circularity. Future demand for resources is set to outpace supply, making materials more expensive and harder to obtain.
While the drive to act more responsibly is high, many companies remain uncertain about the strategies needed to achieve these goals. The big question is: How can they turn this vision into reality?
Europe's Circular Economy Pioneers
Across Europe, companies are demonstrating that a circular economy is both achievable and beneficial. By implementing innovative strategies and forming strong partnerships, these businesses are taking practical steps toward a more resilient future. Their efforts prove that transitioning to a circular model can lead to significant environmental and economic gains.
For instance, companies like COMPO — a leading provider of plant care products for homes and gardens — have introduced innovative packaging solutions made entirely from post-consumer recyclates.
COMPO uses packaging licensing from PreZero Dual to contribute its packaging volumes back to collection via the “Duale Systeme Deutschland”, also known as yellow bag system. PreZero collects, sorts, and recycles packaging from the system. The recycled material from this process can then again be used to create new packaging for COMPO which is a huge step toward a functioning circular economy.
Similarly, PreZero Portugal has turned recycled materials into new products, such as blankets made from old work uniforms, demonstrating the potential of circularity in product innovation.
Other interesting examples of pioneers and outliers from the world of sports include TSG Hoffenheim and its state-of-the-art PreZero Arena in Germany,
which has achieved Zero Waste certification and implemented circular practices, showing that even large-scale operations can commit to sustainability.
RCD Mallorca's stadium in Spain is also making strides towards achieving Zero Waste certification, aiming to demonstrate the potential for circular practices in the sports world.
The Role of Partnerships
In all these success stories, one thing stands out: achieving circularity goals is not a solo endeavor. Strong collaborations are essential for overcoming challenges and striving for innovation.
PreZero has been a key partner in helping various companies integrate circular principles into their operations. By working with experienced partners, businesses can access the necessary expertise and resources to implement effective circular strategies. This allows them to strongly position themselves to meet the aspiring targets of the European Green Deal.
Strategic Steps to Circularity
Turning the concept of a circular economy into a business strategy is, therefore, essential. Companies should begin by adopting circular practices as core business strategies and securing commitment from top management. This involves assembling a dedicated team, setting clear milestones, and evaluating potential risks and opportunities. Leadership at all levels is crucial for advocating circular initiatives and embedding cultural change into the corporate culture.
Developing a customized circular economy plan tailored to an organization's specific needs and challenges can be highly beneficial. Such plans promote proper material management and advance innovation throughout the product lifecycle, supporting continuous recycling and reuse of resources to contribute to an optimally functioning circular economy.
Laying Foundations for Progress
All in all, circularity as a strategy involves meeting regulatory requirements and combining the efforts of businesses, partners, and leaders to focus on resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
By following the eight strategic steps outlined in our model, companies can transform their operations and contribute to a circular economy. These principles align with the goals of the European Green Deal and prepare businesses for long-term success in a rapidly evolving market.
To integrate these strategies into your corporate framework, our comprehensive eBook provides detailed insights and practical steps to help you get started. Take a quick look at the guide and your first step toward a more sustainable and competitive future.
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