The waste industry has moved rapidly in the last few years. The traditional linear model, from production to consumption to scrapheap, is being challenged by alternative processes and business models that seek to recycle, up-cycle and reuse an increasing percentage of today's waste streams. Waste disposal methods are changing, with a focus on alternative means to waste management, combined with increased pressure on policy makers, business leaders and the general public to recycle and reuse. Growing waste management needs in emerging economies are also leading to calls for a rethink of the architecture of the waste management industry. The circular economy is a relatively novel concept of how industrial organisation will evolve away from a linear model by aiming to use resources for as long as possible, extracting the maximum value, and then recovering and regenerating them at the end of their life. When implemented, even in the smallest corners of the waste industry, the potential for disruption of traditional disposal methods is significant and the potential for new investment opportunities huge. A global shift to circularity could add $1tr to the global economy by 2025.
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