The Circular Economy in Scotland: Key to a Fairer Future?

The circular economy is an economic system that aims to eliminate waste and pollution by keeping finite resources in use for as long as possible. This is achieved through a variety of means, such as reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling. It is a vital step in paving the way to a greener Scotland.

The charity and social enterprise sectors have long had a history of supporting a circular economy model. As early pioneers of kerbside recycling schemes, reuse stores, and traditional charity shops, these organisations have often led the way for activity in this space.

The circular economy is an area of debate that has gained momentum over recent weeks with the publication of the Circular Economy Bill. The Bill is ambitious, and it can be both a threat and an opportunity for organsiations working in this sector.

In addition to environmental benefits, a circular economy generates wider economic opportunities through:

• creating jobs
• reinforcing social inclusion
• strengthening communities.

Here at SIS, we support both social and environmental outcomes and we are committed to ensuring their success. As social enterprises have these values woven into their fabric, they are well-positioned to lead the charge.

To support social enterprises in leveraging these opportunities, SIS delivered the Circular Economy 360+ programme in partnership with Zero Waste Scotland which brought together a cohort of ambitious social enterprise and third-sector leaders in a series of tailored face-to-face and online events devised by SIS Associate Naomi Johnson.

The high levels of interest in the programme proved the level of ambition and the final cohort was a strong one spanning a range of sectors including textile, retail, and bike rental!

The first meeting took place at The Barracks in Stirling managed by The Robertson Group. The cohort had the opportunity to meet in person and hear from Sam Moir, Programme Manager at Zero Waste Scotland, and Michael Cook, CEO of Circular Communities Scotland, who provided expert insight into the political and economic landscape relating to the circular economy in Scotland.

Facilitated and encouraged by Naomi, debate and discussion were rightly impassioned and challenging. Topics included:

• the extent to which social value will be embedded into new legislation
• the potential for partnerships with private sector organisations
• the opportunities for funding in the circular economy in Scotland.

We captured the energy of the cohort at the launch event in our Circular Economy 360+ video:

Following the launch event, the cohort joined four focused online sessions where participants could engage with experts and social entrepreneurs in textiles, waste management, and reuse. Guest speakers included:

• Sophie de Salis, Sustainability Policy Adviser, British Retail Consortium
• Sarah Ottoway, Sustainability and Social Value Lead, SUEZ Recycling and Recovery
• Thami Schweichler, CEO at United Repair Centre and Makers Unite
• Eric Randall, Director of Recycling, Bryson Recycling
• Dr. Lynn Wilson, Founder of Circular DS International
• Plus, more.

To enable more organisations to benefit from the latest circular economy insights, these sessions were open to a wider audience and were well attended. Additionally, we recorded all the webinars and have made them available in our Past Events section on the SIS website.

The in-person wrap-up session took place 6 weeks later at Four Square, an Edinburgh charity which supports people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. They also run one of Scotland’s largest social enterprises, Edinburgh Furniture Initiative, where they re-sell donated furniture to support the charity - a perfect choice for Circular Economy discussions! Alastair Davis, SIS CEO, and SIS Associate Rachael Brown attended to hear the participants reflect on their journey.

The outcomes of the programme were positive, and we are still analysing the feedback. Participants reported an increase in their knowledge and understanding of the circular economy, as well as a boost in their confidence and motivation. They also said that the programme had helped them to develop new business ideas and network with like-minded professionals in the sector.

So, as the programme comes to an end, it is only the beginning for the cohort! In partnership with Zero Waste Scotland, SIS is delighted to have delivered this impactful support programme and would like to take this opportunity to thank the participants, guests, and venues again for making the programme one to remember. We would also like to thank Naomi Johnson for her dedication to making this programme a success. Read her thoughts on the Circular Economy 360+ programme here.

At SIS we are dedicated to building an Impact Economy and we are committed to championing those working towards a fairer future for people and planet. A transition from a linear economy to a circular economy is the way to a more sustainable future and, although there is significant work to do, we are positive that the social enterprise sector can play a key role in supporting Scotland in achieving its goals.