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From Lines to Circles: reshaping waste policy
Summary
This review examines global waste problems through the lens of circular economy and zero waste theory, diagnosing the inadequacy of linear 'take-make-waste' systems and reviewing New Zealand's early steps toward a circular economy following its government commitment to this vision. The authors argue for an ambitious, integrated policy approach to avoid lock-in of inadequate waste management infrastructure.
The impacts of waste transcend landfills and litter; emissions and pollution occur at every stage of the linear ‘take–make–waste’ economy. Zero waste and circular economy theories offer systemic perspectives and practical solutions. The New Zealand government has committed to a circular economy vision for Aotearoa. Given New Zealand’s ‘rubbish record on waste’, the social and economic transformation required will take extraordinary collaboration and a common direction of travel. This article diagnoses the extent of global waste problems, the circular pathways forward, and New Zealand’s early steps along them. With the government re-oriented to act, we urge an ambitious, joined-up approach that avoids locking in inadequate responses to existential threats.
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