The Circular Economy: What it Means and How Technal Implements It

As the world continues to grapple with the increasing impact of climate change and concerns of environmental degradation and resource depletion, the circular economy is a concept that has emerged as a beacon of hope and a practical solution to combat these challenges. This idea is a revolution that shifts us away from the linear "take, make, and dispose" model of production and consumption that has long been the norm, transitioning to a more sustainable approach that promotes environmental preservation and resource efficiency. In this article, we will explore the circular economy, what it means, and how Technal’s low-carbon solutions are a vital step in the right direction for achieving our sustainability goals.

The circular economy explained

Firstly, let’s unpack what the circular economy is. The concept refers to a regenerative, holistic approach to economic and industrial processes and operates on the base principles of minimizing waste, extending product lifecycles, and maximizing the utilization of resources. Whereas a traditional, linear approach manufactures products created, used, and then simply discarded as waste, a closed-loop system is created in a circular economy, and products and materials are continually reused, remanufactured, and recycled.

Key aspects that make up the circular economy

Several important elements come together to create a circular economy model. These include the following:

• Efficiency of resources. Rather than extracting new resources from the earth, using our current resources is maximized through reusing and recycling existing materials.
• Designing for longevity. In a circular economy, products are designed with durability as a priority. With products having longer lifespans, there is a less frequent need to replace items.
• Extending the life of current products. In tandem with longevity design, existing products are repaired, refurbished, and remanufactured to extend their lifespan.
• Utilizing digital technologies. By employing digital technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) to track and optimize resource use, the circular economy promotes a conscious monitoring of our consumption and usage levels.

Why is the circular economy model so critical for sustainable development?

As we strive for a carbon neutral future, innovative, implementable solutions to construction and development must be utilized. A model that enables us to make the resources we currently have last longer is a model that slows down our need to extract new resources. The circular economy offers just that, and it is a way for us to achieve sustainable growth that reduces impact. 

• Conserving resources. As the global population grows, demands for natural resources are increasing. The circular economy reduces the pressure on these resources by keeping them in circulation for as long as possible, conserving what we have not yet extracted, and reducing the environmental impact of such extraction.
• Mitigating climate change. It is no secret that the linear economy significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By transitioning to a circular economy, emissions caused by resource extraction are minimized, instead using energy-efficient processes and curbing waste.
• Reducing waste. One of the most significant environmental challenges the world is facing is the sheer volume of waste generated. By adopting circular practices, we reduce waste production and minimize the burden on landfills, incinerators, and the environment.
• Engaging consumers. Promoting a circular economy encourages consumers to become more conscious of their consumption and make more sustainable choices. This empowers individuals to participate in environmental preservation actively, benefitting society and furthering our progress toward a carbon neutral future.

Technal’s approach to the circular economy

Technal is a low-carbon solutions provider. As a Hydro aluminum building specialist, we utilize recycled and low-carbon aluminum to develop our extensive range of doors, windows, curtain walls, facades, and more. Technal aluminum products are created using Hydro CIRCAL and Hydro REDUXA aluminum, which is the key to our success in contributing to the circular economy model. Hydro CIRCAL recycled aluminum is developed with a minimum of 75% recycled, post-consumer aluminum scrap. Using Hydro aluminum, Technal creates a low-carbon solution and enhances sustainable building and development.

But how else do we strive for a circular economy? Our sustainable approach is not limited to our aluminum source. Technal products are also EPD and C2C certified, which can be explored more in our article about these certifications [link]. Additionally, we focus on using localized supply chains that distribute our products while minimizing transportation emissions. But, most importantly, our path toward the circular economy focuses on three things: certifying the material, certifying the product, and certifying the building.

• Certifying the material. As mentioned, the first step is using low-carbon and recycled Hydro aluminum solutions to design our range of products. The aluminum recycling process is certified by DNV - GL, Det Norske Veritas, an independent certification company.
• Certifying the product. Technal products are developed to the highest standards required by the market for reducing environmental impact as much as possible. Our range is classified under the C2C seal.
• Certifying the building. Lastly, with buildings that utilize Technal’s range of low-carbon solutions, developers can certify with LEED, BREEAM, WELL, VERDE, and LEVEL(s), the most well-known certification systems for assessing the environmental impact of buildings.

The circular economy is a practical, innovative solution to some of today's most pressing challenges. A circular approach to production and consumption enables us to conserve resources, reduce waste, mitigate climate change, and create a more sustainable and resilient future. At Technal, we believe in the potential of the circular economy as a sustainable approach to the future of development. As we work together to achieve a carbon neutral future, circular solutions are an undeniable method of getting us there. 

To learn more about Technal’s range of aluminum products and our circular approach, visit our website today. Contact us for a no-obligation quote with a quick turnaround time.