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The Circular Economy

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The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is an independent charity with the aim of inspiring a generation to re-think, re-design & build a positive future through the vision of a circular economy. Ellen MacArthur founded the Foundation to better understand how on land too we rely on finite resources in the form of materials, energy and water after her experiences as a world class sailor having sailed over 26,000 miles to become the fastest person to circumnavigate the globe single-handed.

The Circular Economy 100 is a global platform bringing together leading companies, emerging innovators and regions to accelerate the transition to a circular economy over a 1000-day (3 year) period. The Annual Summit was held Wednesday 19 June 2013.

Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Curated by earthsayer

October 06, 2026

Collection and recycling systems are vital for a circular economy, yet many regions lack the necessary infrastructure. The report β€˜Closing the Loop: Transforming urban waste systems and protecting Brazil’s rivers’ reveals that Brazil could recover BRL 14 billion in recyclable value currently lost to landfills. Approximately 800,000 waste pickers play a crucial role in this system, often without recognition or fair compensation.

In partnership with the City of Recife, Brazil's Federal Government, and companies like Mars, NestlΓ©, @PepsiCo, and Unilever, we aim to invest R$300 million in enhancing collection and recycling systems. This initiative seeks to transform urban waste management and provide valuable lessons for policymakers across Brazil. Learn more about our efforts at Ellen MacArthur Foundation.


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