Waste: we do not want to see it, but it is here

Waste is playing an ever greater role in the development of the modern economy. Proper waste management not only contributes to environmental sustainability, but it can generate significant economic opportunities. This paradigm shift is due to the growing awareness of the circular economy – which is such a topic of conversation – that seeks to transform waste into resources. But… how far does the circular economy go?

This is possibly the most controversial point, which has caused several authors to express a certain criticism of the circular economy as something impossible, as they claim it goes against the laws of thermodynamics (Martínez-Alier, 2016; Mayumi & Giampietro, 2020).

Yet regardless of however we answer the question, which does seem true is that if we are not able to build a stable and efficient market for quality materials from waste, we cannot actually talk about the circular economy.

What do we need to facilitate that secondary material market? In my opinion, four basic and universal actions must take us to that open and efficient market of secondary raw materials: the mass sorting of waste at source; the incorporation of innovative technologies to the correct processing of the waste; a strict quality control of the secondary materials produced; and fostering their preferential use.

We have an opportunity to improve the current situation. However, we should not only rely on technology, as the commitment of each stakeholder of the chain is our best asset.

Many materials from waste, such as plastic, metal and paper, along with others, can be reincorporated in the productive processes. That reduces dependency on natural resources, lowers extraction costs, and contributes to protect the environment.

The transition to what we call the circular economy is key to guarantee sustainable and competitive development in the future.