While the Irish economy is more global than it has ever been, there is still huge scope for action on creating the circular economy at a local level. A localised component of the circular economy is industrial symbiosis, whereby a range of industries and manufacturers in an area come together to consider their combined waste streams and inputs. Numerous examples exist around the world where waste heat, cold, water, nutrients, packaging, chemicals and more are transferred between businesses, cutting down on waste and making savings for all concerned. Studies in France and China have shown that projects of this type require centralised support, and that local authorities are ideally placed to provide this.
Waterford city's ambitions on climate action took a knock when we were not selected for the European Cities scheme, but the opportunities for an ambitious approach to our climate plan still exist. I believe that Waterford city and county could add to its effectiveness on climate action by building circular economy actions into the plan, and resourcing these adequately. Funding for circular economy actions are likely to increase significantly in the near future, and we could be ready to capitalise on these, if we make a firm commitment and build the partnerships needed. We could not just impact our own emissions, but serve as an example for others around the world to follow.
There are many drivers of the circular economy, including national government and EU policies and direction (Green Deal, Circular Economy etc), public demand for less waste and pollution from producers, recognition by enterprises of the unsustainability of current systems and economic opportunities. However, it is the barriers to the circular economy where there is the greatest opportunity for the council to bring about change at a local level.
These barriers are commonly cited as:
Business culture
Regulation
Technology
Finance
Market
Supply chain
Facilitation and co-ordination by local authorities has been shown to be effective in building up, and maintaining, networks amongst local businesses. Collaboration by businesses, whether within their own supply chain, within their locality, or with other stakeholders, is an essential component in the circular economy. This is not automatically recognised and understood by businesses and it requires a change in outlook by owners and managers. Equally, the understanding and awareness of the public, as consumers, needs to be updated to appreciate the benefits of products and services which are adapted to the circular economy (longer lasting product, product-as-a-service, digital solutions etc.). The council could take a lead role in addressing these, and more, issues within the county, in collaboration with the other stakeholders. Bringing together the efforts of SETU, Waterford Chamber, Rikon, LEO, larger local businesses already working on circular business models, and lending institutions, along with regional and national stakeholders, the EPA, various government departments, Circuleire, ISME, SFA Enterprise Ireland, and various other industry bodies, could be the catalyst for significant and sustained progress in the county towards the circular economy.
Movement to a circular economy is inevitable. Whether that happens as a result of the earths resources running out, along with the catastrophic affects of unchecked climate crises, or through the proactive approaches of individuals, businesses and other bodies, is up to us. Movement to the circular economy is a necessity, but also an opportunity, and I would like to see Waterford, lead by our council, set an example to our children, and to the world, on this.