To gain a broader understanding of the important role that Circular Economy and Circular Design have in our abilities to achieve Net Zero Carbon we first need to understand what circular design and Net Zero mean.
Circular Design and Economy is a model of production that in one of its forms, can keep products/materials in sustained use for as long as possible, and this can include sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials rather than disposing of them.
Net Zero refers to the total of all asset (building/interior) related GHG emissions, both embodied and operational, over an asset’s whole life cycle, that are minimised, and meet local carbon, energy and water science-based targets, and with residual ‘offsets’, it then equals zero.
The circular economy requires a systemic change, a process of thinking through the whole life of the asset (product, interior and whole building). Circular principles have a regenerative approach and present an opportunity for a sustainable, low carbon and resource-efficient future.
In the scope of designing and delivering interiors, this relates to the resource of materials and products to make and furnish spaces we live, play and work in. As designers, this circular approach pushes us to think about the end as we begin, so we consciously design with the end in mind through each stage. As an outcome, we are aware of and improve the full life cycle journey of each person, product and the whole interior for flourishing.
If you need help with your company’s Sustainability and Net Zero strategies, design and measurement, contact us here.
If you would like to read more about about circularity and the circular economy, take a look at our blog post below:
