Breaking out of silos: A collaborative approach to the circular economy

The event featured a comprehensive session that included an introduction to Cradle to Cradle Certified® and C2C Certified® Circularity by our Executive Director Elwyn Grainger-Jones. This was followed by a panel discussion on cross-industry perspectives, moderated by our Built Environment Lead, Ren DeCherney, with representatives from Eco Intelligent Growth, Grupo Construcía, Andreu World, and Simon Electric. These experts shared valuable insights on implementing circular principles across different sectors. 

Elwyn emphasized the need to scale the Cradle to Cradle Certified® certification to make a positive impact. He outlined ambitious plans for 2030, including doubling the number of companies and products certified and increasing the number of assessments. He also discussed the challenges and opportunities ahead: 

• Headwinds: The gap between what the planet needs and what people, societies, and governments are willing to do. The issue of too many self-declared certifications with vague claims, and the difficulty of establishing mechanisms for collaboration. 

• Tailwinds: Upcoming regulations, increasing consumer awareness about product impacts, and the economic benefits of using existing materials over extracting new ones. 

Elwyn highlighted the importance of thinking systemically and not in siloes, stating, "We are still the pathbreakers. It’s sometimes exhilarating, it’s sometimes exhausting." He also discussed the need to draw a line between ambition and achievable goals, adding new assessors, and celebrating the achievements of the C2C Full Scope certification. 

The agenda was packed with opportunities for attendees to engage in discussions. Participants explored the circular economy, sharing insights and ideas on advancing sustainability practices. A key focus was on how companies are driving progress with the newest certification, C2C Certified® Circularity, which inspires measurable goals across various aspects of business operations, fostering significant strides toward a more sustainable future.  

“When you talk about circularity, you talk about many things: decoupling the economy from resource consumption, managing risks like inflation, it's a comprehensive risk management strategy.” - Ignasi Cubiñá CSO of Grupo Construcia and co-founder of EIG. 

Discussion Highlights

• Recognitions: The importance of standardizing recognitions amongst certifications.  

• Branding and Communication: Strategies for branding and communicating the new certification, including partnerships with thought leaders and influencers. 

• Value of C2C Certified®: The impact of the Digital Product Passport and the role of C2C Certified® in educating suppliers and future-proofing companies. 

The networking event concluded with a session of closure and drinks, offering a relaxed setting for reflection, networking, and the strengthening of community bonds. This moment of team spirit underscored the shared commitment to driving meaningful change in our industries and beyond. These events collectively emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing the circular economy. 

The insights and connections made during the networking event seamlessly transitioned into the Grupo Construcía’s IV Circular Construction Forum held on the 29 November. During the forum, our Executive Director Elwyn Grainger-Jones participated in a panel discussion where he provided further insights into the progress and challenges facing the circular economy: 

1. Significant Progress: Over the last 20 years, there has been a growing acceptance of the problem and the need for deep circularity to tackle siloed thinking. Statistics from the circularity slide on BE showed that 50% of raw material use and 30% of waste to landfill come from demolition, with the volume of buildings expected to double over the next 40 years. 

2. Implementation Challenges: The current challenge is spreading understanding and dealing with the complexities of systemic implementation. Elwyn noted that many sectors are struggling with this complexity, but tools like the Cradle to Cradle Certified® certification, which has over 1000 certifications, prove that a holistic approach is possible. Key lessons include starting early, involving everyone at the table, and designing products with their end-of-life pathway in mind. 

3. Urgency of Change: Time is not on our side as we face an escalating polycrisis. Elwyn stressed the need for new ways of thinking, collaborations, and innovations to accelerate change. He highlighted the paradox of why, despite the benefits, not everyone is adopting these practices and pointed to growing drivers such as environmental benefits and the scarcity of inputs. 

C2C Certified® is more than a certification—it's a business strategy for sustainability, innovation, and leadership. By aligning with C2C principles, companies not only meet the demands of today’s market but also pave the way for a sustainable future.