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Which experts, organizations, or entities are leading the charge in promoting circular economy practices?

Dorene Woolmore

Oh boy, let me tell you, there are some serious game-changers out there who are leading the charge in promoting circular economy practices!

First up, we have the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Now, I know what you're thinking - Ellen? Like, from the TV show? Nope, not quite. This Ellen is a British sailor who, after a record-breaking solo voyage around the world, decided to dedicate her life to promoting sustainability. Her foundation is all about creating a world where we design out waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use, and regenerate natural systems. Their work spans everything from clothing and textiles to plastics to the built environment, and they work with everyone from businesses to policy-makers to educators to advance the circular economy.

Next on the list is the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. These guys are all about bringing together companies that are committed to sustainability, and helping them transform their business practices to align with the circular economy. They've got some seriously impressive partners in their network (think Coca-Cola, Unilever, and Nestle) and their focus spans everything from energy to finance to urbanization.

But wait, there's more! We've also got the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. Now, if you're not familiar with Cradle to Cradle, it's a certification program that evaluates products based on how well they can be recycled or upcycled - basically, how well they fit into a circular economy. The Institute behind this program offers training and support to businesses looking to create more sustainable products, and they've got a global network of design professionals, architects, and academics working to advance this circular approach.

And speaking of recycling, we can't forget the Recycling Partnership. These guys are all about making recycling easier and more accessible for everyone. Through partnerships with cities and businesses, they're working to increase recycling rates, improve the quality of recycled materials, and expand access to recycling infrastructure throughout the US. Their vision is a world where we design out waste and where recycling is a part of our everyday routine - which fits perfectly into the circular economy.

Last but not least, we have the Ellen MacArthur Foundation again! Yep, they're just that cool. In addition to their work advancing the circular economy, they're also the force behind the New Plastics Economy initiative. This initiative brings together stakeholders from across the plastic value chain (think retailers, packaging companies, NGOs, and more) to build a system that keeps plastics in the economy and out of the ocean. Their ultimate goal is a world where plastic never becomes waste, and they're well on their way to making it a reality.

So there you have it - just a few of the experts, organizations, and entities that are leading the charge in promoting circular economy practices. It's an exciting time to be a part of this movement, and I can't wait to see what else they have in store!