Let's Go Circular

In a circular economy, instead of resources being used once and disposed of, they will be kept in use. Products will be designed to be more durable, reusable, repairable and recyclable, and businesses will look for ways to eliminate waste in their operations.

Consumers will rethink the way they buy, use and dispose of things, relying more on sharing, renting, repairing and repurposing items to prevent waste. This circular shift will reduce our impact on the environment, allowing the earth’s resources to recover and regenerate.  

SM4RT Living Plan

York Region’s waste management master plan, also known as the SM4RT Living Plan, has a visionary goal of “a world in which nothing goes to waste” and includes an objective to “inspire people across the Region to embrace SM4RT Living and advance the circular economy”.  

Circular Economy Roadmap

The Region developed a Circular Economy Roadmap that identifies opportunities to integrate the circular economy into its operations, programs and policies.  

Community Engagement

In October 2023, York Region held an open house and hosted an online survey to gather feedback about residents’ knowledge of circular economy programs and practices.  

Watch the recording: 
 

In July 2024, York Region hosted an online survey for businesses to learn how they participate in the circular economy, the benefits and challenges they are experiencing and what supports they need to succeed.

Information gathered helped inform implementation of the Circular Economy Roadmap and the SM4RT Living Plan updated in 2025. 

Results from both surveys have been combined in a “What You Said Report” 
 

• Backyard Composting — Returns nutrients to the soil
• Biofuel Facility – A local solution for our green bin materials  
• Circular Economy Initiatives Fund – Supports non-profit organizations with community-driven, innovative projects that reduce residential waste and advance a circular economy within York Region
• Durham York Energy Centre — Converts garbage into energy 

A circular economy requires businesses to rethink the way they operate to lower their environmental impact.  

A circular approach presents new possibilities for businesses to:

• Adopt a systems-based method to eliminate waste
• Better compete and operate in a world with limited resources
• Create new job opportunities
• Create new revenue streams and long-term value    
• Create sustainable innovation
• Increase efficiencies
• Reduce costs and environmental impact 

Circular Business Models

Circular business models are designed to keep products, materials and resources in use for as long as possible. Unlike the traditional linear economy which follows a 'take, make, dispose' pattern, circular models aim to minimize waste and make the most of existing resources. A circular business considers its value to customers and stakeholders as well as its impact on the environment, from pre-production to post-consumption.  

Businesses that support a circular economy follow its three key principles: 

Types of Circular Business Models

• Product-as-a-Service: Instead of selling products, companies offer them as services. For example, instead of selling a washing machine, a business rents it out, taking responsibility for maintenance and eventual recycling
• Reuse and Share: This model encourages sharing, leasing and reusing products to extend their lifecycle. Businesses can create platforms for sharing tools, equipment, or even office spaces, reducing the need for new resources
• Resource Recovery: Companies recover valuable materials from old or discarded products. This includes recycling, composting and upcycling, turning waste into new raw materials or products
• Product Life Extension: Businesses focus on repairing, refurbishing and remanufacturing products to extend their usability. This model reduces the need for new materials and lowers waste
• Circular Product Design: Businesses design products with their entire lifecycle in mind, ensuring they can be easily recycled, reused or disassembled for parts. This approach minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency 

How Businesses Can Become More Circular

Becoming more circular involves rethinking how your business designs products and manages its daily operations. Start by assessing your current processes and identifying areas where waste can be reduced. For example, consider using recyclable or biodegradable materials in your products and design them for easy disassembly and recycling.

Some other steps you can take:

• Consider partnering with other businesses to share resources and expertise, creating a network of circular businesses
• Establish take-back programs to ensure products are properly recycled or reused, reducing landfill waste
• Promote product returns for recycling or refurbishment with your customers

Available resources:

• Case studies and examples of circular economy in action from Ellen MacArthur Foundation
• Circular Economy Business Toolkit from National Zero Waste Council
• York Region’s Single-use Resources for Businesses 

Benefits of Adopting Circular Practices  

Adopting circular practices offers numerous benefits for businesses. By reducing waste and improving resource efficiency, companies can:

• Appeal to eco-conscious consumers
• Enhance brand reputation and customer loyalty
• Help comply with environmental regulations
• Lower production costs and increase profitability

Embracing circularity drives innovation and opens up new market opportunities. By rethinking product design and exploring new business models, companies can stay ahead of industry trends and lead the way in sustainable development. In the long run, these efforts contribute to a healthier planet and a more resilient economy.  

Networks and Supports  

• Circular Economy Leadership Canada – A capacity-building network that provides technical expertise and collaborative platforms to accelerate the circular economy in Canada
• Circular Innovation Council (CIC) seeks to advance circular business models, products and services. CIC's Share, Reuse, Repair Hub is an online resource where businesses can list their share, reuse and repair services or find other local providers. Join the Hub to connect with customers and partners and promote sustainability in your community
• Government of Canada - Circular funding opportunities
• Partners in Project Green - Looking to turn your waste into a resource or find valuable materials from other businesses? The Material Exchange Program connects businesses and non-profit groups to share materials, reducing landfill waste and fostering a circular economy