Circularity rate is a measure used to evaluate the extent to which materials are kept circulating within an economy, aiming to reduce waste and resource consumption. It reflects how effectively resources input into the economy are kept in use for as long as possible through processes like reuse, repair, and recycling. Victoria currently recovers approximately 70% of waste.
This material contributes to the circularity rate. Data for 2022 23 shows that Victoria has a circularity rate of 7.5%.
Australia has a national circularity rate of 4.4% for the same period and the global average is 7.2%.
A higher circularity rate indicates a more efficient use of resources contributing to economic sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Modeling by the CSRO indicates that doubling Australia's circularity in line with Australia's circular economy framework's priorities can add 26 billion in gross domestic product each year by 2035. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 14% by 2035 and divert 26 million tons of materials from landfill each year.
Victorians can contribute towards boosting circularity by taking part in reuse, repair, and recycling, choosing recycled materials, and supporting programs that give recycled products a new lease on life. One example is Victoria's container deposit scheme, which ensures that cleaner materials are collected that can then be recycled over and over.
Another is curbside food and organics recycling, which transforms organic waste into valuable resources like compost and mulches, keeping nutrients in circulation for longer. An additional example are initiatives that promote using recycled materials in building and infrastructure projects, reducing reliance on virgin resources.
By making small changes in our daily lives, like recycling more and reusing items, we can help increase circularity for Victoria and do our bid to grow a stronger circular economy with more jobs and a cleaner environment.
Find out more on our website.
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