Home / Business / Study Finds Circular...

Study Finds Circular Economy Practices Could Reduce Global Waste by 25% and Lower Manufacturer Costs

Left 86% Center coverage: 7 sources Right
Global
February 13, 2026 (Updated: February 13, 2026) 0 Center Neutral I want money/finance advice
Study Finds Circular Economy Practices Could Reduce Global Waste by 25% and Lower Manufacturer Costs

TheWkly Analysis

Researchers from Harvard Business School analyzed data from 500 companies in Europe and Asia, using econometric modeling and case studies to evaluate the effects of circular economy strategies on supply chain efficiency over a six-month period in early 2026. The study focused on practices like material reuse and recycling, finding that these approaches could reduce global waste by 25% and lower operational costs for manufacturers by enhancing resource efficiency. This research highlights the potential for circular models to shift business practices toward sustainability, addressing the growing problem of waste in global supply chains. Overall, the findings suggest significant economic benefits, as reduced costs could lead to more competitive pricing for consumers while promoting environmental stewardship.

What this means for you:
As an American consumer, this could mean access to longer-lasting electronics and clothing at potentially lower prices, since manufacturers might pass on cost savings from reduced waste and material reuse.
You can apply this knowledge by choosing products from companies that adopt circular practices, such as those offering repairable items or take-back programs, to stretch your household budget and reduce personal waste.
Watch for potential increases in recycling infrastructure investments, which could create local jobs and influence community recycling programs, affecting your daily routines like sorting trash.
Consider related decisions like investing in sustainable funds or supporting policies that encourage circular economy initiatives, as these could impact your savings through eco-friendly market trends.
Your Wallet
If companies start reusing and recycling materials more, they could cut their production costs, which might lead to lower prices on everyday stuff like clothes, electronics, and furniture for you. This could mean real savings in your budget for big purchases or daily needs. Plus, it might create more jobs in recycling and green manufacturing, giving you better career options in growing fields.

Key Entities

  • Harvard Business School Person

    A leading academic institution conducting research on business and economic trends.

  • Circular Economy Models Person

    Strategies focused on material reuse and recycling in supply chains to minimize waste and enhance efficiency.

Bias Distribution

7 sources
Left: 14% (1 source)
Center: 86% (6 sources)
Right: 0% (0 sources)

Source & Verification

Source: Hbs

Want to dive deeper?

We've prepared an in-depth analysis of this story with additional context and background.

Featuring Our Experts' Perspectives in an easy-to-read format.

Future Snapshot

See how this story could impact your life in the coming months

Sign In to Generate

Exclusive Member Feature

Create a free account to access personalized Future Snapshots

Future Snapshots show you personalized visions of how insights from this story could positively impact your life in the next 6-12 months.

  • Tailored to your life indicators
  • Clear next steps and action items
  • Save snapshots to your profile

Related Roadmaps

Explore step-by-step guides related to this story, designed to help you apply this knowledge in your life.

Loading roadmaps...

Please wait while we find relevant roadmaps for you.

Your Opinion

No poll is available for this story.

Comments (0)

Add your comment

Commenting as Guest

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!

Related Stories

South Korea's Top 10 Firms Hit Record Export Share in 2025 Due to Strong Chip Demand
Business

South Korea's Top 10 Firms Hit Record Export Share in 2025 Due to Strong Chip Demand

No bias data

Exports by South Korea's 10 largest companies account for a record high share in 2025, according to data. This increase is driven by strong demand...

Feb 13, 2026 09:31 PM
Positive
Kenyan Economy Faces Significant Challenges as Discussed by Scholars
Business

Kenyan Economy Faces Significant Challenges as Discussed by Scholars

No bias data

Evidence from Kenyans, particularly Kenyan intellectuals, indicates that economic conditions are very difficult, especially with attention on the...

Feb 13, 2026 09:26 PM
Negative
Tanzania Invests Over 590 Billion in Mtwara Port Upgrades
Business

Tanzania Invests Over 590 Billion in Mtwara Port Upgrades

No bias data

The Tanzanian government is investing over 590bn/- in Mtwara Port and the new Mgao Island Port to strengthen the Southern Corridor for trade and...

Feb 13, 2026 09:25 PM
Positive