As we approach Earth Day 2024, the need for a more sustainable future is more pressing than ever. One innovative solution that has been gaining traction is the circular economy. In a recent special Earth Day episode, Sustainability In Your Ear host Mitch Ratcliffe shared insights from the REMADE Conference, which took place at the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in Washington DC earlier this month.
The conference brought together scientists and business leaders to discuss and share research on enabling a circular economy, which accounts for 30.2% of annual human CO2 emissions. The focus was on reducing waste and creating circular systems in industry, particularly recycling.
One of the key takeaways from the conference was the need for significant investment in technological solutions that make recycling easier for people. There were presentations on advanced recycling technologies for plastics, textiles, and metals, as well as industrial techniques for decarbonization and designing products for easier recyclability. These initiatives aim to move towards a make-recapture-remake approach to products that people use daily.
By investing in recycling technologies and designing products with recyclability in mind, we can make a significant impact on our environment. Consider the possibilities of a circular economy and how it can shape a more sustainable future for all. Tune in to learn more about accelerating the path to a circular economy on Earth Day 2024.
