Blog 425PPMThe circular economy: concrete examples for a lasting impact
Au cœur de la transition
24/1/2025

The circular economy: concrete examples for a lasting impact

Discover concrete and numerical examples of the circular economy. Learn how these practices promote sustainability and transform our economy.
Martin
Martin

Co-fondateur de 425PPM 5 min

The circular economy: concrete examples for a lasting impact

In a world in full ecological transition, the circular economy is emerging as a necessary alternative to our traditional linear model. The latter, based on extraction, production, and consumption before being thrown away, has shown its limits in terms of waste and environmental degradation. The circular economy, for its part, proposes a complete reinvention of the ways we produce and consume, maximizing the use of resources while reducing waste.

What is the circular economy?

The circular economy is based on several key principles that move away from the “extraction-make-throw” model:

  1. Source reduction : Minimize the use of resources and optimize production processes.
  2. Reuse : Give products a second life by repairing, reselling or redistributing them.
  3. Recycling : Transforming waste into new usable resources.
  4. Renovation and eco-design : Design durable products that are easy to maintain and dismantle.

These principles make it possible to limit environmental impacts while offering considerable economic opportunities.

Concrete examples to better understand

To illustrate the benefits of the circular economy, here are three numerical examples that show how this approach can transform different sectors.

Example 1: Recycling furniture with Tizu

Tizu is a pioneer company in the recycling and revalorization of furniture. By recovering used furniture, Tizu transforms it into new pieces or resells it after repair.

In 2023, Tizu recycled more than 10,000 pieces of furniture, which made it possible to reduce the quantity of waste destined for landfills by 50% and to avoid the emission of 1,200 tons of CO2. This initiative also creates local jobs and encourages more responsible consumption.

Example 2: Recycling auto parts with Merci Paulo

The startup Thanks Paulo specializes in the recovery and recycling of automotive parts. Thanks to a circular economy model, Merci Paulo collects, checks and resells used parts while guaranteeing their quality.

In 2022, this young company recycled more than 15,000 auto parts, saving 800 tons of raw materials and reducing CO2 emissions by 1,500 tons. This model allows consumers to achieve significant savings while supporting sustainability.

Example 3: Textile revalorization with Label Emmaüs

Label Emmaus is a flagship initiative in the field of second-hand textiles. It collects and resells second-hand clothing while promoting social inclusion.

In 2022, Label Emmaüs made it possible to revalue more than 1,500 tonnes of textiles, thus avoiding the emission of 4,000 tonnes of CO2. Each piece sold saves approximately 70% of water and energy compared to a new piece of clothing. This initiative shows that sustainability can go hand in hand with a positive social impact.

To illustrate the benefits of the circular economy, here are two numerical examples that show how this approach can transform different sectors.

These examples show that the circular economy is not only good for the environment, but it also creates economic opportunities by generating local jobs and reducing production costs.

Why adopt the circular economy?

The benefits of the circular economy are numerous, whether for businesses, individuals or the planet. Here are some of the main benefits:

Environmental benefits

  • Reduction of CO2 emissions : By reusing materials and reducing production, global emissions can be halved in some sectors.
  • Less waste in landfills : The circular economy helps to reduce the pressure on waste management systems.
  • Protection of natural resources : By using recycled materials, we reduce the extraction and destruction of ecosystems

Economic benefits

  • Cost reduction : Businesses that adopt eco-design or recycling often see a significant drop in their production costs.
  • Innovation and competitiveness : By reinventing their processes, companies are positioning themselves as leaders in their sectors.
  • Job creation : The transition to the circular economy can create new jobs in areas such as recycling, repair, and logistics.

Conclusion

The circular economy is no longer a simple trend, but a necessity to meet climate and economic challenges. By following concrete examples like Tizu or Merci Paulo, it is clear that this approach can revolutionize the way we consume while creating value.

Do not remain spectators, become agents of change. Adopt the circular economy today!

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