The Circular Economy concept is the result of two generations of design innovation, policy development and advocacy by promoters of sustainable consumption and sustainable cities.

Circular Economy starts with an understanding of the 'linear economy'. This is the status quo - where material resources pass through the economy in linear fashion - through the supply chain, through us, to disposal.

In a world of growing consumption and finite land and natural resources, this is unsustainable.

The Circular Economy, by contrast, looks to redeploy material resources at every stage of their life-cycle, bringing materials back to an earlier stage of use, to reduce both waste and the requirement for fresh resources.

Architecture, cities, furniture and infrastructure sectors can support the Circular Economy both by directly using circular principles in design, build, renovation and disposal - and by facilitating circularity in homes, offices, and in society and economy at large.

The European Union has moved into the lead in scoping and mandating the implemenation of a Circular Economy across Member States.

The framework for engagement in Circular Economy by the EU is laid out in the Circular Economy Action Plan, published in 2020.

Sectors targetted by the Action Plan include electronics, textiles, construction, and waste in general - all of which are central to highly materialised and technical architecure, urban and furniture industires.

Around, the EU also adopted in 2024 the Corporate Sustainabily Reporting Directive, which mandates companies to report according to the European Sustainability Reporting Standards.

These include significant Circular Economy provisions, including ESRS 5, and Scope 3 (indirect) emissions - significant for construction projects - and will be in force for any company larger than 250 people from 2025.

The urgency and complexity of the EU Circular Economy mandates reflect the scale of the issue. Transformation undertaken now represents an opportunity for leadership in the industries, cities, buildings and lifestyles now emerging.

Events & Training

Introductory Lecture
‍What is the Circular Economy?
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Three Lecture Pack
‍Introduction to Circular Action
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Training Sessions
Small-group trainings for specific teams and competencies

Analysis & Planning

Analysis Report
Overview of Circular Economy issues and opportunities for your studio or company
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Action Plan
Review and plan of Circular Economy issues and opportunities for your studio or company

Training Tools
Training guides, tests, and references for Circular Economy planning and implementation

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