Circular Economy
In a world increasingly defined by resource scarcity and environmental degradation, the circular economy presents a transformative alternative to the traditional linear model of “take, make, waste.” Instead of discarding products after use, the circular economy emphasizes reuse, repair, refurbishment, and recycling, keeping materials in circulation for as long as possible. At the heart of making this model scalable and efficient lies technology.
These are core values to Free Geek Toronto's mission of improving e-waste management. As an e-waste recycler and active advocate for the circular economy, Free Geek Toronto is doing its utmost to help minimize negative impacts on the environment. We take in unwanted technology and, through an exhaustive process, determine what can be reused and what has to be recycled
At its core are four key principles that guide responsible resource use: reduce, reuse, repair, and recycle.
The key steps towards achieving a circular economy: The 4 R’s;
Reduce
Reducing focuses on minimizing the use of raw materials and energy throughout a product’s life cycle, from production to consumption. By designing for efficiency and leveraging technologies, it helps lower waste, emissions, and environmental impact.
Reuse
Reusing keeps products and materials in circulation for longer by using them multiple times, either in their original form or for new purposes. This conserves resources and reduces the demand for new production, supporting a more sustainable consumption model.
Repair
Repair involves restoring broken or worn-out products to working condition, preventing premature disposal. It helps extend product lifespans, reduces waste, and empowers consumers to make more sustainable choices.
Refurbish
Refurbishing means upgrading or reconditioning used products to a like-new state, often involving cleaning, replacing parts, and testing functionality. It allows high-quality items to re-enter the market, reducing the need for new manufacturing and conserving valuable materials.
How can YOU help?
By donating your old tech, you give FGT the opportunity to refurbish it, and create something that someone else can use, instead of contributing to overconsumption. By putting in the effort to buy refurbished, you are decreasing your consumption, and promoting the circular economy. Which in turn has the opportunity to tackle issues like global warming, climate change, biodiversity loss, waste and pollution.
