The circular economy often starts quietly
Many companies have long been operating in a circular way without realising it. In their new publication, authors André Podleisek and Nicolas Hofer show how everyday practices contribute to the circular economy and what economic benefits this brings. Their model offers SMEs and start-ups a concrete starting point.
How much circularity is already part of everyday corporate life? A research team led by Prof André Podleisek from the University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland and Nicolas Hofer from the IPEK Institute asked themselves this question. Their findings from over ten analysed strategies: two thirds of companies are already implementing circular principles, often unconsciously.
Repair services, reuse, take-back programmes and resource-conserving design are all building blocks of the circular economy. However, because terms such as “circular economy” are rarely used explicitly, the potential of these measures often remains unrecognised.
Economic benefits clearly recognisable
The study clearly shows that companies that strategically integrate circular principles into their core business are more likely to benefit from economic advantages. These include increases in turnover, higher margins and technological advances. This also has a particularly strong impact on their public image, with 86% of companies reporting a better image.
While recycling was mentioned less frequently as a strategy in its own right, design customisation, repair models and reuse are particularly popular across all sectors.
Getting started for SMEs
For small and medium-sized enterprises or start-ups, the recommendation is to start pragmatically. The Rapperswil Circular Economy Model developed by the authors helps companies to determine their own location and plan their first steps in a targeted manner, be it in terms of processes, products or services.
The modular approach lowers the barrier to entry. The circular economy does not have to be perfect, it can grow. A repair service, a new packaging solution or a take-back system are real approaches with a measurable impact.
Acting circularly, consciously and successfully
The circular economy is not only an ecological concept, but also an economic success factor. Companies that actively engage with circular strategies not only strengthen their competitiveness, but also their future viability, often by simple means.