Entries are now open for The Circle Awards.
The inaugural awards champion the businesses, organisations, projects and people shaping the circular economy in Australia and New Zealand across beauty and a range of categories.
Retail beauty brands already using circular models in business include L’Occitane, which allows consumers take back their empty products and recycle them, as well as Weleda, which promotes regenerative, or circular farming as a contribution to climate protection and the preservation of biodiversity.
The circular economy is regenerative by design, where waste is designed out, and materials stay in use for as long as possible.
Currently, it’s estimated than less than 10 per cent of our economy is considered circular.
Established by The World’s Most Rubbish (TWMR) in partnership with NSW Circular, The Bravery, and Urban List, The Circle Awards aims to spotlight products and services adopting circular practices that span all aspects of our day-to-day lives.
It also aims to grow awareness of the sustainable options available to more people, not just the ones who are already looking for them.
Nick Hoskin, Co-Founder of TWMR and The Circle Awards said, “Many consumers and brands are already contributing towards a more circular world, sometimes without realising it. While we’re hearing the term ‘circularity’ or the ‘circular economy’ more than ever, the understanding of what this means, both in theory and practice, is limited.
“The Circle Awards showcases tangible examples of circularity in action, demonstrating to people that we can consume more consciously without compromising on quality, cost or experience. In fact, circular design thinking is behind some of the most interesting products and services on the market as a driving force for innovation. The result can be a far superior experience because every aspect in the process has been carefully considered to deliver the best possible outcome.”
Kester Black Founder Anna Ross, which produces Australian made nail polishes that are ethically made, vegan, cruelty-free and carbon neutral said, “It’s truly inspiring to see the innovation across the cosmetics industry when it comes to circular design models. We’re seeing more brands adopt refillable products, compostable or recycled content packaging, and that’s really just the beginning. The Circle Awards will bring more of these products to light and make it easier for people to make those more sustainable choices.”
The Circle Awards are free to enter and are open now until May 14. Winners will be announced on June 14. More information on the website.