The notion of the circular economy has emerged as a component of sustainability, underpinned by a model of make, use and reuse which can be contrasted with that of the linear economy of make, use, dispose. Recent scientific evidence and increasing public awareness of issues such as marine plastic pollution emphasise not only the interconnection between land and ocean but also the need to change the way we do business and interact with the environment.

​

As well as creating new opportunities for growth, a more circular economy will:

 

Reduce waste
 

Drive greater resource productivity 
 

Deliver a more competitive UK economy.
 

Position the UK to better address emerging resource

 

Security/scarcity issues in the future. 
 

Help reduce the environmental impacts of production and consumption. 

 

The key challenge of delivering a circular economy is waste management.