Circular Sydney
ReCo Digital acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands upon which this initiative takes place: Gadigal, Worimi, Bedegal, Guringai, Tharawal, Darkinjung, Dharug, Wallumedegal and Gumbaynggirr Country. We pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians of the lands, past, present and emerging. We recognise their deep connection to the lands and their unique cultural heritage, which continues to enrich our shared community.
Discover the real world of the circular economy in Sydney.
Citizen Wolf and ReCo co-founders. Photo: Jason de Plater.
Imagine a city where waste reduction, resource efficiency and economic growth go hand-in-hand. That's the power of the circular economy, a system that keeps resources in use for as long as possible.
But how does it work in practice? Circular Sydney brings you inspiring stories of local innovators and organisations who are pioneering circular practices in Sydney.
Ready to join the movement? Let's discuss how we can help you implement successful circular economy projects.
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Understanding the circular economy
What is a circular economy? A circular economy is where wastes no longer exist, and resources are continuously in use. It’s a simple concept, but it represents a complex and crucial transformation.
Circular Sydney explores the many facets of this transformation—from big topics like systemic change, supply chain complexity, policy reform, business innovation, money and social justice to the individual actions we can all take right now.
Borrowing from Uncle Phil Bligh’s wisdom, sustainability is about having a good relationship with the land, place and Country. It means creating space for First Nations people and walking the journey together.
Through introspection, inspiration and education, we hope we can understand where we’re at, envision our collective destination and co-create that future together.
Circular Sydney follows the full product cycle, centred around ecological and human wellbeing.
Artwork: Paige Hasaballah / Delta Venus
Circular economy principle 1
Circular Design
Circular economy designs out waste. From products, buildings and cities, design expands to the economic system and social justice. Dr. Paul Callaghan teaches us: always design with purpose; our ability to create comes with responsibility.
Circular economy principle 2
Circular Materials
Everything comes from nature. In a circular economy, materials are treated with respectful, mindful intention – everything is used purposefully, reused, recycled. Dr. Danièle reminds us of the Elders' wisdom: take only what you need; don’t be greedy.
Circular economy principle 3
Circular Manufacturing
The Australian manufacturing industry has seen drastic decline over the past few decades. However, can it present opportunities for innovation? In this chapter, we explore the cutting-edge research and technology that Sydney’s brightest minds bring to the (re)manufacturing field.
Circular economy principle 4
Circular Logistics
How do we move goods with minimal impact? Uncle Phil Bligh teaches us to respect Country and its timeless stories, to honour the land and its people. Looking ahead, can we combine ancient wisdom with modern technology to achieve net-zero emissions in logistics?
Circular economy principle 5
Circular Consumption
Circular consumption keeps things in use for as long as possible. As Alice and Kiran from Regen Sydney explain, it’s also about regenerating — to give back as we take, to build relationships, and to heal the land and its beings.
Circular economy principle 6
Reuse
Reuse is at the heart of what we do at ReCo. It's not only about minimising waste, but also maximising resources, creating social impact and building a sustainable and equitable future together.
Circular economy principle 7
Recycling
Recycling should be the last resort, but it’s still a crucial part of a circular economy. It keeps resources in use. In this chapter, we explore the waste situation, the recycling industry and how to recycle better.
Actions for a circular future
What's Next?
The future is shaped by what we do now. Endless possibilities await as we embrace respect, unity and empowerment. As First Nations leader David Beaumont reminds us, there's an opportunity for everyone when we walk together.
Supporting government organisations for a sustainable future
The ReCo Digital team brings a wealth of experience in sustainability communication, consumer behaviour change and engagement. For over 10 years, we've worked with the City of Sydney council, fostering community engagement, environmental well-being and the city's global city branding.
Work with us
Learn how we created Circular Sydney
At ReCo Digital, our passion is driving positive change. We integrate sustainability, creativity and technology into our approach. Learn more about how we created Circular Sydney with our team and AI tools.
Case study