Policymakers, CEOs, and other influential individuals are highlighting the circular economy as a solution to build back better in response to the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
As the world faces unprecedented challenges, signatories have stated that they are “more committed than ever” to accelerating the transition to a circular economy — creating solutions for plastics, fashion, food, finance, and beyond that combine economic opportunity with benefits to wider society and the environment.
The statement further calls on businesses and governments around the world to join the journey towards a circular economy — to invest in circular economy solutions and raise the ambition level of circular economy targets.
Together we can build an economy that is distributed, diverse, and inclusive
Dame Ellen MacArthur, Founder, Ellen MacArthur Foundation, said: “CEOs of some of the world’s biggest companies, policymakers, philanthropists, academics, and other influential individuals have reaffirmed their commitment to building a circular economy.
“Together we can build an economy that is distributed, diverse, and inclusive.”
Signatories include Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy, Greater London Authority, CEO of WRAP, Stella McCartney, CEO of Unilever and CEO of Nestle.
As the world faces unprecedented challenges, the signatories have stated that they are “more committed than ever” to accelerating the transition to a circular economy — creating solutions for plastics, fashion, food, finance, and beyond that combine economic opportunity with benefits to wider society and the environment.
The statement further calls on businesses and governments around the world to join the journey towards a circular economy — to invest in circular economy solutions and raise the ambition level of circular economy targets.
Statement in full
As we rise to the challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the question is no longer should we build back better, but how.
Many have already called for a response to the devastating impacts of this pandemic that does not turn attention away from other global challenges such as climate change and pollution.
The circular economy offers a solution for how to do so.
By designing out waste, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems, it creates vital opportunities for economic growth that also restore the environment, create jobs, and benefit society.
Leading businesses and governments have already taken important steps towards building a circular economy. The fight against plastic pollution is one example.
More than 850 organisations have united behind the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s vision of a circular economy for plastics and ambitious 2025 targets to achieve it.
Now is the time to build on this momentum and do more, not less. As the world faces unprecedented challenges, we are more committed than ever to accelerating the transition to a circular economy, creating solutions that combine economic opportunity with benefits to wider society and the environment.
For plastics we will eliminate what we don’t need, innovate towards new business models and materials, and circulate all the plastic we do use – keeping it in the economy and out of the environment.
For fashion we will ensure clothes are used more, are made to be made again, and are made from safe and renewable materials.
For food we will redesign products and supply chains to regenerate nature, eliminate the concept of waste, and connect local production and consumption where appropriate.
For finance we will support companies in their transition to circular business models, and mobilise capital towards circular solutions. And we will not stop there.
We can do the same for other industries that have vital roles to play in this recovery, including healthcare, technology, mobility, electronics, chemicals, and the built environment.
We call on more businesses, governments, and financial institutions around the world to join us on the journey towards a circular economy, to invest in circular economy solutions, and to raise the ambition level of circular economy targets, while delivering faster against existing ones.
For the full list of signatories, click here.