What is the Circular Economy
The current model of production often involves resource extraction, high transportation costs and waste disposal. The circular economy is a tool that can be used to retain resources and manufactured goods within the production system, with the goal of innovation, reuse and repair, redistribution, recondition, recycling, and use of renewable energy. A business adopting circular principles could see the following benefits:
- Reduced operational costs by optimizing resource use and waste management.
- Greater innovation, leading to unique products and services that can differentiate a business in the market.
- Increased long-term sustainability by reducing reliance on finite resources and adapting to a changing economic landscape focused on sustainability.
Circular Economy Accelerator Program
Join the Circular Economy Accelerator Program! The Accelerator Program provides hands-on support to Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast businesses to adopt circular economy principles, reduce waste and emissions, and develop innovative practices.
Program participants will complete a site visit with a circular advisor and receive an opportunities assessment detailing opportunities to incorporate circular economy solutions and reduce waste, energy use, and emissions. You will also receive environmental metrics to help you track your progress, attract investment, and build a reputation as a green leader.
Intake for the Circular Economy Accelerator is now open! Businesses will be accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are full. Learn more and apply at www.project-zero.ca/accelerator
Businesses that are a good fit include large producer of waste (material/energy/water/emissions) in the following sectors:
- Agriculture/aquaculture
- Construction and manufacturing
- Hospitality or large retail
- Food & beverage processing
- Natural resources
In 2023, Duncan Paving and West Coast Prefab participated in a pilot phase of the program. Resources including a Circular Economy Business Guide, webinars, and final report are available from: www.viceda.com/accelerator
Building Material Exchange Initiative
Are you a construction or manufacturing business with surplus materials? Need raw materials? BMEx is developing an online marketplace tailored to the needs of your industry. Visit www.light-house.org/bmex/ to learn more.