the circular economy

Question 1

what is the circular economy

Answer 1

the analysis of human activities and the assessment of how the principles of natural systems can be used to create a more sustainable lifestyle

Question 2

list the principles of circular economy

Answer 2

1) cycling materials
2) use of energy from renewable resources
3) human activities should not damage natural ecosystems
4) diverse systems are more resistant to change
5) using the waste product of one system as the raw material for another
6) design products for extended use
7) design products for recycling
8) optimum production rather than maximum production

Question 3

explain the principle of cycling materials

Answer 3

each process should use the waste products of a previous process and produce waster which are raw materials for subsequent processes therefore there is no depletion of raw materials or build up of wastes

Question 4

explain why diverse systems are more resistant to change

Answer 4

each component in a diverse ecosystem is likely to be relatively less important so the impact of change will be less

Question 5

outline how circular economy can be applied to land uses in order to support natural ecosystems

Answer 5

1) urban development- design and management of gardens and green spaces can provide opportunities for wild life to colonise
2) forestry- management which incorporates mixed species forests of native trees increases wildlife value
3) fishery- improved fishing methods can sustainably exploit fish populations while reducing bycatch and damage
4) mineral exploitation- minimise the impact and site restoration after mine closure producing valuable lands

Question 6

how circular economy be applied to mineral resource management

Answer 6

1) increasing reserves by exploiting low grade ores using lower temp processes
2) extending product life spans by using better designs
3) use of replaceable parts
4) reduce unnecessary use such as too much packaging

Question 7

how can circular economy be applied to waste management

Answer 7

• repair
• reuse
• repurpose
• recycle

Question 8

how can the circular economy be applied to pollution control

Answer 8

• industrial synergy= wastes become resources
• better designs so wastes can be separated and recycled
• change from internal combustion engines to fuel cells

Question 9

how can circular economy be applied to food production

Answer 9

inclusion of natural processes in nutrient supply, pest control and soil maintenance

Question 10

outline the EU initiatives which support circular economy in terms of conservation of biodiversity

Answer 10

1) better protection of ecosystems
2) development of green infrastructure
3) better management of fish stocks
4) better control of introduced species

Question 11

outline the EU initiatives which support the circular economy in terms of waste and pollution management

Answer 11

1) better control of urban waste water
2) minimal use of landfill
3) recycling of used batteries
4) control of industrial emissions
5) reduction in food waste
6) reuse of packaging

Question 12

outline EU initiatives that support the circular economy in terms of manufactured appliances

Answer 12

1) improved design so they can be repaired and extended
2) improved design so they can be recycled
3) reduced use of toxic materials in electronics
4) easier battery replacement