Rewiring the economy
for people, planet and prosperity.
The biggest cause of climate change is overconsumption – where society puts too much pressure on earth's finite resources through our "take, make, waste" economic model. We're Scotland's circular economy public body, working with government, business, and communities to rewire the economy from our current consumption driven model to one where we make the most of the materials we have.
What circularity means to Scotland
As a society, we consume far more than the planet can sustain. It’s a global problem that’s driven by a ‘take, make, waste' economy that relies upon extraction, production, consumption and discarding of products and materials -often leading to waste and environmental harm. In Scotland, our economy has required the equivalent of 22 tonnes of materials per citizen per year – almost three times the sustainable consumption level established by scientists. The circular economy is the best tool we have to turn this around while maintaining a high quality of life.
Impact of circularity
Economic growth
£7.11bn
GVA (Gross Value Added) generated by circular sectors in Scotland, representing a total of 4.7% of Scottish GVA. (Source)
Job creation
81,447
circular jobs were attributable to circular sectors in Scotland, representing 4.4% of total employment in Scotland (Source)
Increased productivity
0.4%
productivity boost potentially provided by circular practices – higher than emerging technologies are projected to bring to the labour market. (Source)
What's new
Ciaran McGuigan appointed as new Chief Executive of Zero Waste Scotland
Zero Waste Scotland has today announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive – with Ciaran McGuigan, current Finance and Corporate Services Director, taking the helm after a robust, competitive recruitment process.
Scotland's Circular Economy Strategy
Take part in the circular economy strategy consultation and have your say in shaping Scotland's future.
Systems Mapping of Scotland’s Built Environment and Energy Infrastructure Sectors
Zero Waste Scotland have published interactive systems maps of Scotland's built environment and energy infrastructure sectors to illustrate the factors influencing circular economy principles and practices.
