WHAT ON EARTH SUMMER 2022
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Circular economy in action around the world The proposed circular economy law is an opportunity for Scotland to show the true scale of its ambition and take action to reverse the environmental damage created by an economy based on growth and overconsumption. We’ve taken a look at some of the exciting developments in circularity around the world, to consider how Scotland can use these as inspiration to create a sustainable and socially just future.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Local Food Chains & Organic Waste Amsterdam’s city-wide strategy is focused on providing sustainable food in the city. Local consumption is key to achieving sustainable food systems because it shortens the distance between consumers and their food and improves local agricultural practices. The city is aiming to halve food waste, increase locally grown produce, and reduce the environmental impact of food by switching the primary protein source from meat to vegetables. This will help fight climate change as well as creating local green jobs and creating more healthy food options.
It’s doing this with a combination of public education campaigns, waste infrastructure and financial support. It has provided public advertising space to encourage eating food with a low ecological footprint and buys locally grown food to stimulate production. The increased production and consumption of local produce allows the city greater control over agricultural practices. To improve the collection and processing of organic waste, it’s aiming to have separate kitchen and garden waste collections for the majority of households within this decade.
