Increased population, urbanization and industrial productivity have led to an increase in material consumption which in turn exerts extreme strain on natural resources. Moving away from the linear economic model of take-make-dispose, towards a circular economy (CE), a system that is restorative by intention and design is necessary. Resource efficiency (RE) and closing of loops (through re-use, re-manufacture, recycle, etc.) form the bedrock of a circular economy.

The objective of this study is to demonstrate that that application and practice of circular economy principles has significant potential to reduce virgin material requirement, improve air quality and reduce GHG emissions. The approach adopted in the study can be replicated for different sectors at varied scales (unit-level, company level or sector-level).