In a society propelled by large-scale forces that have aligned more with the use and discarding of our natural resources, Algonquin College Green Team and Entrepreneurship Club invited Kevin Brady, director of sustainable enterprise consulting with Thinkstep, to explain the foundations of the circular economy Nov. 3.
“A lot of companies are trying to figure this out. What do we do? How do we secure the supplies, materials and energy that we need?” said Brady at the talk. “It’s an important focus area.”
Brady took the stage at the Algonquin Commons Theatre to explain that traditional economic models are known by terms like ‘cradle-to-grave’ and ‘take, make, waste.” This happens when a resource is used in most industries, it is destined to eventually be used and then thrown out.
A circular economy takes the material or resource used in manufacturing or production and aims to use it again or put it back in the supply chain.
“[Previously] it’s a cradle-to-grave approach to business where the circular economy is cradle to cradle,” said Jay Smith, co-ordinator of environmental studies. “Where we make products and services that don’t end up in the landfill. They go back into the industrial stream.”
Smith hopes that talks by experts like Brady and calls to action from groups like the AC Green Team will inspire students to make the changes that our world needs.
“The young people are going to drive the business of the future,” said Smith. “Their ability to become leaders and say these issues are important will matter. The reality is we’re not even close to a circular economy.”
At the College, the AC Green Team are hoping to be those leaders.
“I believe there is a lot of untapped interest and passion within the student population to positively impact our local and global communities on environmental and social issues,” said Sarah Dehler, sustainability co-ordinator. “What is required are small reminders of the ways we can all contribute.”
At the end of his talk, Brady indicated hope for the next generation is what keeps him striving for a better future.
“I think change will occur, I’m just seeing more and more people are starting to prepare for that,” he said.