Circular Economy Isn't a Magical Fix For Our Environmental Woes

The circular economy model is a concept that has gained quite a bit of traction in recent years as a solution to many environmental issues. In other circles, it's sometimes referred to as industrial ecology, but regardless of the name, the idea is similar. "The circular economy model – which aims to use closed-loop production to keep resources in play for as long as possible – is presented as a pragmatic, win-win solution; an almost magical fix for our environmental woes." As much as closing waste and resource loops are admirable and necessary, the circular economy model cannot be the solution many of its proponents claim it to be. Not only have studies found that it does not necessarily reduce primary consumption (one of its main tenants), it does nothing to upend the socioeconomic structures that allow rampant environmental damage. 

The author of this article claims that for the circular economy model to truly challenge issues of climate change, resource depletion, and pollution, it must be couched in a framework that takes into account the social systems of inequality in the global economy. Technological and conceptual advances can often have the opposite effect intended: "Just as more efficient coal plants can lead to lower coal prices and therefore higher demand for coal, more efficient use of materials can make products cheaper and therefore more appealing. While technical changes succeed in lowering the per-unit impact, overall the environmental benefit is largely offset by economic growth." Thus, it is not changing our technology that will solve issues of society, but democratic decision making that value people over monetary gain.