Consumption

Consumption patterns play a crucial role in moving towards the circular economy. In a consumption context, circularity is about organisations and individuals making sustainable purchases and use of the products and services.

Assessment

• There are signs that consumers are ready to embrace more circularity in the products and services they consume. Increased interest in the sharing-economy and other novel circular models is positive, so long as this replaces conventional consumption, rather than adding to it.

• High levels of food waste, especially post-consumer waste, are concerning given the significant environmental footprint of food production.