Why the Circular Economy 360+ Programme was a timely opportunity for social enterprises

With a long-term interest in the Circular Economy, I was delighted to convene and facilitate CE360 for Social Investment Scotland. Run with the support of Zero Waste Scotland, the programme brought together a cohort of active organisations to reflect, share, and consider their responses to the current and future external environment.

Far too often smaller enterprises are ‘heads-down’, focused on operational delivery with little chance to lift their heads above the parapet. CE360 offered a unique face-to-face and online experience to do just that. Something we at SIS believe could be replicated for other sectors and opportunities.

It’s an exciting time for this sector. With the Circular Economy Bill now set to go through the legislative process here in Scotland, there seemed no better time to bring together organisations working on, or wanting to do more, to accelerate the move from a linear economy. With over 20 years’ experience in this field, I have a deep passion for ensuring that the legislation and subsequent actions that follow will not have an adverse effect on charities and social enterprises that have long been delivering services in this area. In addition, this is even more critical when we look at reuse and the additional benefits this brings in supporting those in need.

In considering our speakers I wanted to hear from a wide variety of experience from social enterprises, private and public sector, academics, and those developing new services to support a circular economy from outside of Scotland and the UK.

With potential reuse targets looming, there is much that organizations operating in the space may need to prepare for. Whether public sector contracts and procurement or potential contracts with private sector partners, these are all options that need to be explored. Without this thinking, what seem like potential opportunities could also become threats for those that don’t consider their response early on.

The Bill was introduced on 13th June, just days before our CE360 sessions started, and is currently being considered by the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee. At Stage 1, the Bill is examined by the Committee as they gather views and produce reports before MSPs debate the Bill in the Chamber. MSPs then decide on the purpose (“general principles”) of the Bill.

Group photo credit Jon Gill

There are few people that would argue that we do not need to make this transition to a circular rather than linear economy, the implementation of change is sometimes more of a challenge. The charity and social enterprise sector have long been agile – whether adapting to Covid-19 and the new needs of its community or growing, contracting, and adapting services as part of their ongoing service. I know organisations will adapt as changes come through the Circular Economy Bill but as we continually noted throughout the CE360 series, it’s always better to be prepared and plan accordingly.

Online sessions were made open to a wider audience and if you missed any, you can watch again here.

If your charity or social enterprise wants to know more about work happening in relation to the Circular Economy Bill then you can keep an eye on Government updates or follow Circular Communities Scotland.

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