Circular Economy
An economic model that eliminates waste by keeping materials in use for as long as possible through reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling, replacing the traditional linear take-make-dispose approach.
The circular economy is an economic framework that designs out waste and keeps resources in productive use. It contrasts with the traditional linear economy of take-make-dispose.
Circular economy principles for packaging:
- Design for recycling — create packaging that can be easily recycled
- Use recycled content — close the loop by using secondary materials
- Reduce material use — lightweighting and elimination of unnecessary packaging
- Enable reuse — design packaging systems for multiple uses
- Keep materials in the economy — prevent leakage to landfill or environment
pEPR is a key policy lever for driving circular economy outcomes in packaging. Modulated fees incentivise recyclable design, waste management fees fund collection infrastructure, and the Plastic Packaging Tax drives recycled content uptake. WRAP leads much of the UK's circular economy work. See our circular economy packaging guide.
Related Terms
Recyclability
The practical ability of a packaging item to be collected, sorted, and reprocess...
Recycled Content
The proportion of a packaging item made from previously recycled materials rathe...
WRAP
The Waste and Resources Action Programme — a charity working with governments, b...
Eco-Design
The practice of designing packaging with environmental considerations integrated...
Lightweighting
Reducing the weight of packaging while maintaining its protective and functional...
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