Linear economy vs Circular economy

The take-make-dispose mechanism is the basis for the linear economy.

The ‘take’ happens while extracting resources in the form of raw materials from the earth.

The ‘make’ involves processing them to produce something, a.k.a manufacturing.

And finally, once it wears out its purpose comes the time to ‘dispose’ of it, creating multiple levels of waste.

From an ecological standpoint, the linear economic model is problematic on many levels.

To counter the linear model, the circular model emerged.

It helps us look beyond material production by considering the social and ecological side of production.

Basically, it is an economic model that seeks to reestablish value preservation in the wake of value destruction.

In a circular economy, waste is technically non-existent or minimal.

The objective is to do this long enough to create an economy that sustainably promotes reuse, refurbishment, and longevity.