Circularity 101

Circularity 101: Answering Your FAQs

14 Jan 2025

We often get questions about circularity - what it means, why it matters, and how it fits into everyday life. It's a topic that comes up frequently in conversations with our customers, and we realised it's something worth diving into. So, we decided to put all your questions into one place: this blog.

Circularity isn’t just another word you hear thrown around. It's a way of rethinking how we use and value the things we own, so nothing goes to waste. While it's a powerful solution to some of our biggest environmental challenges, the truth is, it's not yet embraced by everyone. That's why it is so important to talk about it and make it part of the conversation.

This isn't a lecture or a list of impossible changes. It's about breaking it down, answering your questions, and showing how even small steps toward circularity can lead to something meaningful.

Quick links

What exactly is circularity?

At its core, circularity is about breaking away from the "take, make, waste" cycle we've been stuck in for so long. Instead of using resources once and throwing them away, circularity focuses on keeping materials in use for as long as possible. That might mean designing products that last longer, repairing things instead of replacing them, or recycling materials into something new.

Think of it as a loop. Everything stays connected, and nothing ends up as trash. It's about creating systems that work with nature.

Why does circularity matter right now?

The truth is, our planet can’t keep up with how much we are consuming. Resources are limited, and the waste we produce is polluting the air, land, and oceans. Circularity gives us a chance to rethink how we use the Earth’s resources so we are not just draining them but also giving back.

Huge Landfill Caused by Linear Economy

Does it just mean - doing less harm? Well, no. It's about creating a system that's regenerative, where waste becomes a resource, and the cycle keeps going.

What are some everyday examples of circularity?

Circularity can be as simple as:

  • Refilling a reusable water bottle instead of buying single-use plastic ones.
  • Using clothing rental services instead of buying something you will only wear once.
  • Composting food scraps to turn waste into nutrient-rich soil.
  • Swapping or donating items you no longer need instead of throwing them away.

Even small actions, like fixing a broken zipper or reusing jars, are part of the circularity mindset.

What's the difference between circularity and sustainability?

Sustainability is the broader goal - living in a way that meets our needs without compromising the future. Circularity is one way to achieve that goal. While sustainability often focuses on doing less harm, circularity is about changing how we use resources entirely. Keeping materials in play - repairing, reusing, repurposing, so waste isn't even part of the equation. In a way, circularity is like the practical side of sustainability, showing us how to make better use of what we already have.

How does circularity impact climate change?

Circularity plays a big role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By reusing materials and designing products with longer lifespans, we can cut down on the need for resource extraction, manufacturing, and waste disposal - all of which contribute to climate change. For example, repairing a product instead of replacing it saves all the energy and resources that would have gone into making a brand-new product and shipping it to you. It’s a simple way to shrink your carbon footprint and take some pressure off the planet.

Is circularity just about recycling?

Recycling is part of it, but circularity goes much deeper. Recycling often happens at the end of a product's life, while circularity focuses on the entire lifecycle. It’s about designing things to be reused, repaired, or repurposed from the start. Recycling is like the safety net - important, but not the whole solution.

Recycling is Different From Circularity

Why is repair so important in circularity?

Repairing something instead of throwing it away is one of the simplest, most impactful ways to practice circularity. Whether it’s replacing the soles of your shoes or fixing a cracked phone screen, repair gives new life to what you already have.

We are big believers in repair. It's why we share care guides, recommend services like Gofixit, and encourage you to treat your belongings as investments, not just items. Every time you repair instead of replace, you’re helping extend the life of the resources that went into making that item.

Are certain industries better suited for circularity?

Absolutely. Industries like fashion, electronics, and packaging are making significant strides. Many fashion brands now offer take-back programs, repair services, or clothing rentals, while electronics companies focus on repairable and upgradable products.

However, not all initiatives are as effective as they seem. Some take-back programs have faced criticism for failing to properly recycle or reuse items. This highlights the importance of choosing brands carefully and ensuring their promises align with their actions. Every industry, including food and construction, has a role to play in rethinking resource use and minimising waste.

Recycling Clothes

What's the most challenging part of circularity?

The hardest part is breaking old habits. We have grown up in a world that values convenience and disposability, so shifting to a circular mindset takes effort. It also requires businesses and governments to rethink how they operate, which isn't always quick or easy. But as more people demand sustainable solutions, the easier it becomes to make circularity mainstream.

Is circularity expensive?

It can feel like circular products cost more upfront, but the real question is: what’s the value over time? A high-quality product that lasts for years, or that can be repaired when needed, is often cheaper in the long run than something cheap you have to replace every few months.

And circularity isn’t just about spending more - it's about making smarter choices. Donating instead of throwing away, choosing timeless over trendy, and focusing on durability over disposability.

How can I practice circularity in my life?

You don’t have to change your whole life overnight to practice circularity. Start with one step, and let that step lead to another, and then another.

Buy thoughtfully

Before you hit "add to cart," take a moment to think about the lifespan of the product. Is it something that will last you years, or will it fall apart after a few uses? Prioritise items that are well-made, repairable, or versatile enough to serve multiple purposes. Investing in quality over quantity not only saves you money in the long run but also reduces the demand for disposable, wasteful products. Remember, thoughtful purchases are the foundation of a circular lifestyle.

Extend the life of what you own

Everything you own has more potential than you might think. A small tear in your favorite jeans doesn’t mean they’re destined for the trash. Grab a needle and thread or visit a tailor. That old phone you were about to replace? A quick repair might make it as good as new. Taking care of what you already have - cleaning, maintaining, and repairing, creates a deeper connection to the things you own and makes you appreciate them even more.

Upcycling as a Part of Circularity

Find a new home for old items

Just because you are done with something doesn't mean it’s done for good. Donate clothes, give old furniture to a friend, or trade items you no longer need. What's useless to you might be exactly what someone else is looking for.

Support brands that care

Look for companies that offer repair services, take-back programs, or products designed to last. When you spend your money with businesses that value circularity, you are helping them invest in better materials, smarter designs, and more sustainable practices that benefit us all.

Borrow, don't buy

Whether it's a tool you will only use once or a fancy dress for a party, consider borrowing from a friend, renting, or finding a sharing service. Sometimes the best way to reduce waste is to avoid making a purchase at all. And trust us, we are saying this as a shop that loves when you shop - but responsibly. We are here for the things you really need, not just the things you think you do.

How can I explain circularity to others?

The easiest way is to use simple, everyday examples. For instance, you could say: “Circularity is like handing down clothes to younger siblings instead of throwing them away. It's about giving things a second, third, or even fourth life so nothing goes to waste.” Sharing your own experiences, like fixing something you thought was broken or finding creative ways to reuse old items, can also show how small changes can make a big difference.

How are we working toward circularity?

Circularity is at the core of what we do, and our agood loop™ program is a big part of it. This program allows customers to return our products when they are no longer in use, so we can incorporate them into future production. It’s our way of keeping materials in circulation while giving you something in return - a discount as a thank-you for being part of the loop.

Getting here hasn't been easy. It's been a journey filled with challenges, mistakes, and plenty of learning. Designing products that last, sourcing sustainable materials, and building a program like agood loop™ has pushed us to think differently at every step. And while we are proud of how far we have come, we know there's still so much to learn and improve.

Can circularity really make a difference on a global scale?

Absolutely. The choices we make as individuals do matter, but the real shift happens when businesses, governments, and industries get on board. When big players start rethinking how they design, produce, and manage resources, we can seriously cut down on waste, pollution, and the strain on the planet. And while it might start small, those changes can grow into something truly impactful.

Circularity starts with all of us

The beauty of circularity is that it is a shared effort. Every repair, every thoughtful purchase, every small action you take contributes to a much larger movement.

So, what’s your first step? Maybe it's fixing something you love, donating something you don’t need, or simply choosing to ask, “What’s next for this?” instead of throwing it away.

Let’s keep the circle turning.

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