Build a circular economy

By building a circular economy we save money and the planet by reducing, reusing and recycling, resulting in less waste and pollution sent to landfills.

What is a circular economy?

A circular economy keeps materials and products in circulation for as long as possible. It reduces material use, redesigns products to be less resource-intensive, and recaptures ‘waste’ as a resource for new materials and products. The focus is on sustainability, resource efficiency, and waste elimination. It can also save you money in the long run.

By contrast our current economy is much more linear going from extraction of resources to manufacture and consumption and then to waste (Take > Make > Waste).

Every year, 12,000 tonnes of waste goes into landfills in Aotearoa. Waste is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gasses.

Stories of change

Manager Anne-Marie Abel with native trees planted
Build a Circular Economy

Sustainability in the sunshine at Ruakākā Beach Holiday Park

Ruakākā Beach Holiday Park's sustainability and conservation programme includes initiatives to save power and water, use eco-friendly products, reduce waste, protect native bird life, and plant natives.

Two people on bicycles
Build a Circular Economy

My journey of imperfect environmentalism – by Alyssa Olsen

When Alyssa Olsen began making changes to live more sustainably, she never imagined it would turn into a decade-long commitment. Here’s a look back at her transformation to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Stu Hargie with his trophy for the Excellence in Sustainability and Climate Action Award.
Build a Circular Economy

Whangārei-based coffee producer wins award for sustainability and climate action

Using a range of sustainability initiatives from innovative packaging and energy-efficient solutions to on-site solar electricity generation.

"I love repair cafes"

Nicole Ross is the founder of Repair Cafe Kaipara

Take action

Start by reducing your own waste. Repair broken items instead of throwing them away. Borrow or rent items instead of buying them. Choose products with minimal packaging and support businesses that prioritise sustainability.

Individual

Community

Image of Te Taitokerau from Google Earth

Regional