COMPANIES Circular Economy
Circular Economy in Computer Hardware Companies:
Introduction:
The evolution of our digitally connected world is unimaginable. There are now more digital devices in the world than people. In 2019, humans around the world purchased approximately 1.52 billion smartphones, 785 million laptops, 128 million desktop computers, and 489 million Wi-Fi routers, figures that are expected to grow exponentially over the next five to ten years with new “smart” technologies
Circular Economy is a popular idea amongst environmentalists and champions of sustainability as it places an emphasis on designing out waste and pollution, thus keeping products in use for longer and facilitating the regeneration of natural systems. Now, as the world faces an imminent climate crisis, the IT and technology industries are starting to sit up and notice.
At the 2019 CIO summit, Mattie Yeta, government sustainable ICT lead at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) defined the circular economy as: “An economic model that aims to eliminate waste by reusing, repairing, remanufacturing, refurbishing assets and devices, thus keeping them longer in the circle and in the loop.”
we exist in what’s known as a linear economy where we take resources, use them to make something and then dispose of it when we’re done. We produce around 50 million tonnes of e-waste every year, 80 percent of which ends up in an unknown location. Countries around the world that used to take our ICT waste are no longer accepting it and recently the UN has been very clear that countries need to get a clear handle on how to deal with e-waste.
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Around 50 to 60 percent of the world's tungsten is found in our devices,” . “26 percent of the world's tin is found in our laptops and our devices and 9 percent of the world's gold is in them. To put that into perspective, we could extract seven to nine grams of gold from an IC chip of a laptop.”
The professional services company Network 2 Supplies (N2S) provides an IT recycling and bioleaching service. These circular solutions reduce the amount of e-waste and prolongs the life of vital materials and technology, all in an environmentally friendly way.
HPE offers a hardware return and recycling programme to Hewlett Packard Enterprise Partners and business customers. The programme says it gives IT hardware, such as servers, storage and networking products, a new lease on life, reducing environmental impacts from disposal.
Fairphone was founded with the intention to develop a mobile device that does not contain conflict minerals (which in smartphones are typically gold, tin, tantalum and tungsten), has fair labour conditions for the workforce along the supply chain, and can be repaired and upgraded to help people to use their phone longer.
The Repair Café is a non-profit organization that began as an idea in 2007 to build skills to repair digital devices. There are now 2,000 Repair Cafés in more than 24 countries. In 2017, over 300,000 digital devices were repaired.
Circular Economy in BPO Companies :
Introduction:
A circular economy is an economic system that aims to minimize waste and optimize the use of resources by keeping products, components, and materials at their highest value and usefulness always. BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) companies can adopt circular economy principles to reduce their environmental impact and increase their profitability.
Here are some ways that BPO companies can implement circular economy principles:
Reduce waste by implementing practices such as reducing paper usage, using energy-efficient equipment, and minimizing water usage.
Reuse products and components by refurbishing or repairing them, which can help reduce the need for new products.
Recycle materials such as paper, plastic, and electronics. They can also implement recycling programs for their employees to encourage them to recycle.
Source sustainable materials and products to reduce their environmental impact.
Encourage a circular mindset among their employees by providing training and resources on circular economy principles.
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Accenture is a global professional services company that helps clients with digital transformation and sustainability initiatives. The company has been involved in circular economy activities by developing innovative solutions such as circular supply chain management and waste reduction programs.
Infosys is a leading provider of consulting, technology, and outsourcing services. The company has been working on circular economy initiatives such as reducing carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, and waste reduction through its sustainability program, Infosys Earthian.
Capgemini is a global leader in consulting, technology services, and digital transformation. The company has been involved in circular economy activities by developing solutions such as product life cycle management and closed-loop supply chain management.
Genpact is a global professional services firm that helps businesses drive digital transformation and sustainable growth. The company has been involved in circular economy activities by developing solutions such as sustainable supply chain management and reducing waste in manufacturing processes.
Wipro is a leading global information technology, consulting, and business process services company. The company has been involved in circular economy activities by developing solutions such as sustainable packaging and reducing e-waste.
The demand for sustainable business practices is growing. More BPO companies are likely to become involved in circular economy activities.
Circular Economy in Computer Software Companies :
An Introduction:
Circular economy is an economic model that aims to create a closed-loop system, where materials and resources are kept in use for as long as possible, waste and pollution are minimized, and the natural environment is protected. While circular economy concepts have been primarily applied in the manufacturing and physical goods sectors, it can also be applied to software companies.
Rather than discarding older software products or components, companies can explore ways to reuse or refurbish them. This can include repurposing older software components in new products or using open-source software components to reduce waste and increase efficiency.
Optimizing code to reduce energy consumption, using renewable energy sources, and implementing energy-efficient hardware.
Design software products that are more durable, upgradeable, and repairable. This can include designing software products that are modular and can be easily upgraded, repaired, or adapted for different uses.
Apply circular economy principles to data management. This can include reducing data waste, reusing data for different purposes, and finding new ways to repurpose data that would otherwise be discarded.
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SAP SE is a global leader in enterprise software solutions, and its products help businesses manage their operations sustainably. SAP's Circular Economy initiative helps companies to optimize resource use, reduce waste, and minimize their environmental impact.
Microsoft Corporation is committed to promoting sustainability, and its Circular Centers program aims to help businesses transition to a circular economy by providing tools and resources to design, build, and operate circular systems.
Salesforce is a leading provider of cloud-based software solutions, and its Sustainability Cloud helps businesses to track and manage their environmental impact. The platform provides insights and analytics to help companies identify opportunities for resource optimization and waste reduction.
IBM Corporation has a long history of environmental stewardship, and its Circular Economy program aims to help businesses achieve sustainability goals by designing products for reuse, repair, and recycling.
Accenture's Circular Economy solutions help companies to develop circular business models, optimize resource use, and reduce waste. The company's digital tools and analytics capabilities enable businesses to track and measure their sustainability performance and identify areas for improvement.
Circular economy in IT service companies :
An Introduction:
Circular economy is a concept that aims to minimize waste and promote the sustainable use of resources by keeping products, materials, and resources in use for as long as possible. The principles of circular economy can be applied to many different industries, including web hosting, web development, and software product activities.
In the context of web hosting, a circular economy approach would involve maximizing the lifespan of servers and other hardware components, reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, and minimizing waste through responsible disposal and recycling practices. This could involve strategies such as using renewable energy sources, virtualization, and cloud computing to reduce the need for physical hardware, as well as implementing efficient cooling systems to reduce energy usage.
Similarly, in web development, a circular economy approach would involve designing products and services with longevity in mind, minimizing waste by reusing existing code and resources, and ensuring that products can be easily updated and maintained over time. This could involve implementing modular design principles, using open-source software and libraries, and prioritizing sustainable design practices such as energy-efficient code and optimized data usage.
Digitalisation boosts the circular economy business models by helping to close the loop, slow the material loop and narrow the loop with increased resource efficiency. The virtualization of products and processes, collaboration with stakeholders and utilising digitalization were highlighted to be major opportunities in adopting CE-based business models.
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Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), a data collection technology that has attracted significant attention within the context of Circular Economy. RFID uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to object. In the context of circular economy, RFID help track material flows to enable value recovery through the implementation of Re-strategies such as Reuse, Repair and Remanufacture.
Internet of Things (IoT)can collect information generated by sensors to connect stakeholders across the value chain.
Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS) and data handling systems support the goals of Circular Economy, as they integrate the wealth of information produced by heterogeneous data collection systems such as IoT, ERP and CRM systems.
Blockchain enabled Municipal Solid Waste Management Framework which will return benefits to the Consumers with corporate participation under Extended Producer’s Responsibility Protocol. This inclusive approach will require integrated efforts from Corporates, citizens, Government, NGOs, technocrats, academicians, and the waste pickers.
Circular Economy in Software products Companies:
An Introduction:
Circular economy is a concept that aims to minimize waste and optimize the use of resources in a closed-loop system. In the context of software products and companies, circular economy principles can be applied in several ways, such as reducing e-waste through design for longevity and repairability, using renewable energy to power data centers, and promoting software-as-a-service (SaaS) models that enable shared use of resources.
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Microsoft has set ambitious goals to become carbon negative by 2030 and to use 100% renewable energy in its data centers by 2025. It has also launched a Circular Centers program to explore ways to reuse and recycle hardware.
Google has been carbon neutral since 2007 and has committed to using 100% renewable energy for its operations by 2030. The company also has a circular economy initiative that focuses on designing products for repairability and recyclability.
Dell has a circular economy strategy that includes using recycled plastics and other materials in its products, as well as offering take-back programs to recycle old electronics. The company has also set a goal to use 100% renewable energy by 2030.
Apple has set a goal to become carbon neutral across its entire supply chain and product lifecycle by 2030. The company has also developed a robot named Daisy that disassembles old iPhones to recover and recycle valuable materials.
Salesforce has committed to using 100% renewable energy by 2022 and has developed a circular economy program that includes designing products for longevity and recyclability, as well as offering a take-back program for old equipment.
HP has a range of sustainability initiatives, including a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its products by 30% by 2025. The company also offers a range of circular economy products and services, such as its HP Planet Partners program, which enables customers to recycle their old HP products.
Fair phone is a company that designs sustainable smartphones that are modular and repairable. The company also sources materials responsibly and works to reduce e-waste.
Wipro is an IT consulting and services company that has implemented circular economy principles by creating a closed-loop recycling system for its IT assets, such as servers and laptops. The company also works to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.
Cisco has implemented circular economy principles by designing its products for easy repair and refurbishment. The company also works to reduce e-waste and has implemented a recycling program for its products.
Circular Economy in the Real estate :
An Introduction:
The circular economy is an economic model that aims to eliminate waste and promote the continual use of resources by designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. Real estate companies can play a significant role in promoting a circular economy through their activities and practices.
Activities of real estate companies that can contribute to the circular economy include:
Renovate and retrofit existing buildings to improve energy efficiency, reduce waste, and promote reuse of materials.
Implement recycling and waste management programs to reduce waste and promote reuse of materials.
Promote the use of sustainable materials in building construction, such as recycled or reclaimed materials.
Promote shared economy models by creating shared spaces and amenities within their properties
Incorporate circular design principles into their projects to promote the use of renewable resources and reduce waste.
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Ecovative Design is a company that creates building materials from mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. Their products are compostable and can be used for insulation, packaging, and other building applications.
IKEA is committed to using sustainable materials in their products and has implemented a circular economy approach to their furniture. They offer a "buy back" program where customers can return their used furniture to be resold or recycled.
Skanska is a construction and development company that focuses on sustainable building practices. They use materials that are sustainable and recyclable, and they prioritize energy efficiency in their buildings.
JLL is a real estate services company that has implemented sustainability initiatives in their operations. They have a program called "Building a Better Tomorrow" that focuses on reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices.
Tarkett is a flooring company has implemented a closed-loop system for its carpet tiles. At the end of their life, the tiles are collected, separated into their component materials, and then recycled into new tiles.
Interface is a carpet tile manufacturer has implemented a program called ReEntry, which recycles used carpet tiles into new ones. The company has also committed to using only recycled or bio-based materials in its products by 2030.
Saint-Gobain is a building materials company has implemented a circular economy program that focuses on product design, recycling, and waste reduction. As part of this program, the company has developed new products made from recycled materials and has implemented recycling initiatives at its manufacturing facilities.
Circular Economy in the Banking Companies:
An Introduction:
Circular economy is an economic model that is designed to be restorative and regenerative by keeping resources in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value from them, and then recovering and regenerating materials at the end of their life. The circular economy aims to reduce waste, increase resource efficiency, and create economic and environmental benefits.
The role of banks is
developing a common understanding of the circular economy
issuing widely accepted and recognized guidelines on circular economy finance
adapting finance models to fit into a circular economy model
offering credit lines to circular businesses
creating a green bank
training bank staff
promoting a strong culture of waste reduction and material re-use
ensuring that the board risk committee (BRC) of banks is competent in circular risk management and control.
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Triodos Bank is a sustainable bank that focuses on financing renewable energy projects, organic agriculture, and fair trade initiatives. It also provides loans to social enterprises and community projects.
Amalgamated Bank is a U.S. bank that supports sustainable business practices and provides financing for clean energy projects, green buildings, and environmental conservation initiatives.
Crédit Agricole is a French bank that has developed a circular economy strategy to reduce waste and support sustainable development. It has committed to financing circular economy projects and promoting sustainable business practices.
BBVA is a Spanish bank that has developed a comprehensive sustainability strategy, which includes a focus on the circular economy. It has committed to financing projects that promote the efficient use of resources, reduce waste, and support sustainable development.
ING Bank is a Dutch bank that has developed a circular economy strategy focused on financing projects that promote sustainable business practices, reduce waste, and support the transition to a circular economy.
BNP Paribas is a French bank that has developed a circular economy strategy focused on financing sustainable infrastructure, supporting sustainable supply chains, and promoting sustainable consumption and production practices.
Bank of America is a U.S. bank that has committed to supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and financing sustainable business practices. It provides financing for renewable energy projects, green buildings, and sustainable agriculture initiatives.
Rabobank is a Dutch bank that has developed a circular economy strategy focused on financing sustainable agriculture, reducing food waste, and promoting sustainable food production and consumption practices.
Circular Economy in the stock trading Companies:
An Introduction:
The circular economy is a model of economic development that aims to minimize waste and promote the sustainable use of resources by keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible. It involves designing products that can be easily reused, repaired, or recycled and creating closed-loop systems that reduce the amount of waste generated.
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Interface: This global flooring manufacturer has a goal to become a carbon-negative company by 2040. Interface is known for its innovative use of recycled materials in its products, including discarded fishing nets and carpet tiles. In 2021, the company reported revenue of $920 million.
Veolia: Veolia is a French company that provides waste management and water treatment services. The company is involved in the collection and sorting of waste materials, as well as the recycling and recovery of materials. In 2021, Veolia reported revenue of €26.01 billion.
Unilever: This consumer goods company has made a commitment to become a zero-waste company by 2025. Unilever is involved in a number of circular economy activities, including the use of recycled plastics in its packaging and the promotion of reusable packaging options. In 2021, Unilever reported revenue of €50.7 billion.
Renewcell: Renewcell is a Swedish company that produces recycled cotton fiber for use in the textile industry. The company uses discarded cotton clothing to produce its fiber, which is then used to make new textiles. In 2020, Renewcell reported revenue of SEK 96 million.
Loop Industries Inc. (LOOP): Loop Industries is a Canadian company that uses proprietary technology to recycle waste PET plastic and polyester fiber into high-quality, food-grade PET plastic. This technology reduces plastic waste and provides a circular solution for plastic production. The company went public in 2018 and has been growing its revenue and partnerships since then.
Tomra Systems ASA (TOM): Tomra is a Norwegian company that provides sorting and collection solutions for recyclable materials such as plastics, metals, and glass. Its solutions help to optimize the recycling process and reduce waste. Tomra has been a publicly traded company since 1985 and has seen steady revenue growth over the years.
Waste Management Inc. (WM): Waste Management is a US-based company that provides waste management and environmental services. It is involved in circular economy initiatives such as recycling and waste-to-energy projects. Waste Management has been publicly traded since 1971 and has a strong financial performance.
The circular economy can be a valuable concept in stock trading commodities as it promotes sustainable and responsible investment practices while also offering new opportunities for investors.
Circular Economy in the Logistics companies:
An Introduction:
Circular economy in logistics refers to the implementation of circular economy principles in the logistics sector. Circular economy is a system where resources are kept in use for as long as possible, waste and pollution are minimized, and natural systems are regenerated. The logistics sector plays a crucial role in the transition to a circular economy by optimizing the use of resources, reducing waste and emissions, and facilitating the circulation of materials and products.
Reverse logistics involves the return of used products or materials to the manufacturer or supplier for reuse, refurbishment, or recycling. Reverse logistics can help reduce waste and preserve valuable resources.
Collaborative logistics involves sharing logistics resources, such as vehicles, warehouses, and distribution centers, among multiple companies. By sharing resources, companies can reduce their environmental footprint and optimize resource use.
Green logistics involves using environmentally-friendly transportation modes, such as electric or hybrid vehicles, and optimizing transportation routes to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Packaging optimization involves reducing the amount of packaging used, using recyclable or biodegradable materials, and designing packaging for reuse or recycling.
Product life extension involves extending the life of products through repair, refurbishment, or remanufacturing. By extending product life, companies can reduce waste and conserve resources.
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DHL has implemented a number of circular economy initiatives, including the use of electric vehicles and bicycles for last-mile delivery, the optimization of packaging materials to reduce waste, and the implementation of a reverse logistics program to recycle and repurpose used products.
UPS has implemented several circular economy initiatives, including the use of alternative fuels for transportation, the implementation of a closed-loop packaging system for reusable shipping containers, and the implementation of a reverse logistics program to recycle and repurpose used products.
FedEx has implemented several circular economy initiatives, including the use of hybrid and electric vehicles for transportation, the optimization of packaging materials to reduce waste, and the implementation of a reverse logistics program to recycle and repurpose used products.
Maersk, the world's largest container shipping company, has implemented several circular economy initiatives, including the use of fuel-efficient vessels, the optimization of shipping routes to reduce emissions, and the implementation of a reverse logistics program to recycle and repurpose used products.
Many other companies around the world that are also working to reduce waste and emissions, optimize resource use, and promote sustainable growth in the logistics sector.
Circular Economy in the Entertainment Companies:
An Introduction:
The circular economy is a model of economic development that seeks to maximize the use of resources and minimize waste. In the context of the entertainment industry, a circular economy approach would involve designing products and services with sustainability in mind, and finding ways to reuse or recycle materials and resources in order to reduce waste and promote a more sustainable and regenerative system.
Reusing and Recycling Props: Film and television productions often use a wide variety of props, and these can be repurposed and reused for future productions or recycled.
Eco-Friendly Sets: Production sets are being designed to reduce waste and be more environmentally friendly. This includes using renewable energy sources, recycled materials, and reducing water consumption.
Sustainable Packaging: The music and video game industries are exploring more sustainable packaging options, such as using recycled materials or reducing the amount of plastic used.
Upcycling Costumes: Costume departments are upcycling and repurposing costumes from previous productions rather than purchasing new items.
Energy Efficient Venues: Concert and event venues are being designed to be more energy-efficient, using renewable energy sources and implementing sustainable waste management practices.
Greening Transportation: The entertainment industry is exploring more sustainable transportation options, such as electric and hybrid vehicles, to reduce carbon emissions.
Digital Distribution: The rise of digital distribution in the entertainment industry reduces the need for physical products and packaging, which in turn reduces waste.
Repurposing Film Stock: Motion picture film stock is being repurposed and used for artistic and creative projects.
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