The Circular Economy
A Circular Economy is a concise book that seeks to rebuild capital, whether this is financial, manufactured, human, social, or natural, and offers opportunities and solutions for all organizations. This book is the perfect introduction for anyone wanting to quickly get up to speed with this vitally important topic for ensuring sustainable development. It sets out a new framework that refines the concept of a Circular Economy and how it can be applied at industrial levels. Practical examples and case studies with real-life data are used to elucidate the ideas presented in the book.
"There are no limits to stupidity. This is the only way to explain the utterly wasteful economy we live in. If the world had had the courage to listen to Walter Stahel long ago, the linear production model would long be gone in favour of circular material flows. His most recent book is a wonderful introduction into the Performance economy and an economy in the service of life."
— Anders Wijkman, Chairman Climate-KIC and Honorary President of the Club of Rome.
"Walter, one of the 'fathers' of the circular economy concept, makes crystal-clear that we need a cultural shift, moving us from ownership to stewardship. This book will serve students as much as decision makers to understand the CIE concepts, its mode of operations based on nodes of industrial relations and its advantages for society."
— Nathalie VERCRUYSSE, Scientific Officer for Foresight, European Commission, DG Research & Innovation.
"Lots of questions concerning circular economy need more convincing answers. But one thing is certain - when a book is written by Walter and edited by Ellen McArthur Foundation, it is a must-read. Walter was a pioneer with a vision well ahead of the rest of us, and who understood the importance of the concept and introduced it into the world of policy making."
— Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for Science & Research (2004-2010); European Commissioner for Environment (2010-2014) in charge of preparing the EU Circular Economy Package. Since Co-Chair of the UN International Resource Panel (IRP).