Toward a Circular Economy

Since the very beginning Irene and I have made clear that Decimononic is our instrument to change the world for better. We have pointed out that we are moving towards an environmental disaster caused by a non-sustainable economic system characterized by the waste of natural resources due to the abuse of disposable goods and programmed obsolescence, which means that a new approach to the global manufacturing/conssumption system is essential. This is is easy to say, of course, but which alternative can we offer? Alright, it is time to give an answer to this question.

As you know, our economic model follows a simple scheme: take, make, dispose. Is this sustainable in the long term? No, absolutely not because natural resources are limited. This is the reason why we need to develop a different model, based on sustainable consumption and restoration. We need rational consumption patterns and a regenerative industrial system which restores material, energy, and labor inputs. Would this be possible? We do think so and we are most pleased to share with you some valuable resources to learn more about the concept of ‘Circular Economy’.

1.- Two videos to understand the concept of Circular Economy

First, we recommend you this video of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation entitled ‘Re-Thinking Progress: The Circular Economy’.

Second, we recommend you this video of PhD in Biochemistry Marcel Wubbolts at TEDxMaastricht (Sept 2013).

The ‘concept of circular economy’ can only come natural when we speak about our own activity. Despite the existing areas for improvement (we all know the blood diamonds issue, for example), the reuse of resources is something usual in the jewelry manufacturing process as both precious metals and gemstones are too valuable to be simply disposed. We wanted to go beyond this with our Machinarium Collection, transforming non-functional vintage and antique watch movements into fine jewelry pieces with a powerful symbolism.

2.- More resources about Circular Economy

Last but not least, the following links:

• Wikipedia: ‘Circular Economy’
• Ellen MacArthur Foundation: www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org
• McKinsey Quarterly: ‘Remaking the industrial economy’
• McKinsey&Company: ‘Moving toward a circular economy’

Do you know other valuable resources about Circular Economy? Are you willing to support this kind of initiatives? Feel free to share your insight with us in the comments below!