Edinburgh Circular Map


The Circular Economy: A Closed Loop

Did you know?

Scotland's material consumption is almost double the world average, at 21.7 tonnes per person per year, with over 98% of this material coming from virgin sources.

The Circular Economy: What does it mean?

A circular economy is a systemic approach designed to keep resources in use for as long as possible. It is a regenerative system that works on three core principles:1-Eliminate Waste and Pollution2-Circulate Products and Materials (at their highest value)3-Regenerate Natural Systems

Find Circular Economy Initiatives in Edinburgh

This map helps locate Circular Economy initiatives close to your neighbourghood or explore the city to discover key resources.

The Three Principles Explained

1-Eliminate Waste and Pollution: This is a fundamental shift in thinking. Instead of managing waste at the end of a product's life, the circular economy designs waste and pollution out of the system from the very beginning. This includes choosing sustainable materials, designing for durability, and creating products that can be easily repaired or disassembled.2-Circulate Products and Materials (at their highest value)): This principle is about keeping materials in the loop. This is where concepts like reuse, repair, refurbish, remanufacture, and recycle come in.Reuse: Using a product for the same purpose multiple times (e.g., a reusable water bottle).Repair: Fixing a broken product to extend its life.Refurbish: Bringing an old product back to "like new" condition.Remanufacture: Taking parts from a used product and using them to create a new product of the same type.Recycle: Processing materials into new raw materials that can be used to make a different product. The goal is to keep materials circulating at their highest possible value for as long as possible, using recycling as a last resort.3-Regenerate Natural Systems: A circular economy goes beyond simply reducing harm; it aims to be a positive force. It means returning valuable nutrients to the soil (e.g., through composting), avoiding the use of harmful chemicals, and actively working to restore ecosystems.

"The key is simply to uncover value in waste." Gunter Pauli

If you are an organization based in Edinburgh involved in the Circular Economy and want to be listed in the EdinburghLoop Map, are interested in Research Projects or have an idea to enhance the circular economy in the city we want to hear from you.