The reality of the ‘zero-waste’, circular economy

We extract more than 100 billion tonnes of raw materials from Earth each year, then throw most of them away. The “circular economy” offers a different approach: instead of the linear “take-make-waste” model, we could reuse, repair and recycle materials. But despite growing enthsiasm for a circular lifestyle, we’re actually moving backwards – and using more virgin resources than ever.

Over the past decade, the idea of a circular economy gained significant traction, inspiring some to aim for a zero-waste lifestyle. It has become a cornerstone of the broader transition to net zero, as the production of oil-based plastics continues to generate waste and carbon emissions.

The reality paints a far less optimistic picture. According to the latest Circularity Gap report, the use of “secondary” materials like recycled plastic or reclaimed wood is declining, while reliance on virgin resources continues to rise.

This raises the question why – with all the enthusiasm for a circular economy – are we still struggling to make meaningful progress towards it?

In our recent research, my colleagues and I argue that progress is being held back by two distinct narratives. One paints a utopian vision – arguing that, with enough innovation, we can eliminate waste and regenerate ecosystems, all while continuing to grow the economy.

The opposite narrative is less hopeful and fixates on the obstacles...

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