IB Design Technology Topic C2.2: Design for a Circular Economy Key Definitions

A material that breaks down naturally into basic substances through microorganisms, given the right conditions of moisture, oxygen, temperature, and nutrients.

A circular economy is an economic model where resources are kept in use for as long as possible, extracting maximum value during their life, and then recovering and regenerating products and materials at the end of their life cycle.

The reduction of total material and energy throughput of any product and
service.

An economic model that follows a take-make-dispose approach, leading to
depletion of resources and waste.

Restoring a product to like-new condition by cleaning, repairing, and upgrading its components for continued use.

Processing used materials to recover resources and create new products, reducing the need for raw materials.

Energy from natural sources that are replenished over time or never run out, such as solar, wind, and hydropower.

Restoring a product’s functionality by fixing faults or damage, allowing it to be used again instead of replaced.

Extending a product’s life by using it again, either for the same purpose or a different function, instead of discarding it.

Laws that require manufacturers to collect and responsibly dispose of or recycle their products at the end of their life cycle. This is also known as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)