Plan your circular economy strategy for 2024

In a time where environmental consciousness is more than a trend, businesses in Brighton & Hove are increasingly recognising the need to adopt circular practices. Last week at Plus X, in collaboration with Brighton & Hove Loop, Brighton Chamber hosted a panel and discussion event, where we heard three circular businesses share their insights, challenges and tips for businesses interested in implementing circular strategy in 2024. 

But what is a circular economy?

A circular economy is an economic system designed to minimise waste and make the most of resources. In a circular economy, products, materials, and resources are used in a way that prioritises sustainability, longevity, and the reduction of environmental impact.

At this event, we heard from three people practicing these circular principles:

• Ayten Roberts, Creative Director of Ayten Gasson

• Emer Gillespie, Director and Designer of Spark & Bell

• Michael Kennard, Founder of Compost Club

Here are some of the key themes and ideas from the evening and what panellists and businesses think we should be doing.

The first step: Reflect on your business practices

Panel chair, Vicky Welstead of Fugu PR, kicked off the discussion by asking ‘What advice would you give to a business that wants to become more circular?’ All three panellists agreed that the first steps are to look at your business and question whether certain parts could operate more sustainably.

Ayten shared that even being 18 years into her business, she is still changing and re-evaluating the way she works. One way that businesses can start to re-evaluate is by having conversations with other business owners who want to become more circular. Sharing tips and attending events like this one are great ways to spark ideas for circular business practices. Michael advocates for being as honest and objective as possible about whether sustainability is even possible for your business. This is because we're running out of time for destructive activities. For him 'more sustainable ' is a euphemism for less destructive. Overall, the panel agreed that it takes time to adjust to being circular. And don’t give up – any step you take to being more circular is positive. 

Collaboration with suppliers

The trio shared their perspectives on working with suppliers and how to investigate supply chains when this may be out of the control of business owners. Encouraging challenging suppliers without sustainable policies and influencing them to reduce waste and save resources started the discussion. Emer gave an example of insisting her glass suppliers use lower impact, fully recyclable packaging and design a solution for them. Ayten emphasised the importance of transparency through certificates. For Michael, tapping into the local economy for supplies and repurposing materials from other businesses where possible is a way he encompasses sustainable practice. 

The power of collaboration

Recognising the need for collaboration, Ayten proposes the creation of a database for sustainable brands to connect, fostering networking opportunities and resource-sharing. Collaborating through partnerships with universities and local talent to keep money circulating within the community was also seen as a valuable pathway. Michael expressed his frustration that the green image of Brighton comes from the people that live here and that has never been harnessed or mobilised in a way that could make this city an example to the world. We could be sustainable and circular if we create the means for it and create a compelling story to bring people in.

Story telling through social media

What was emphasised by all the panellists was storytelling through social media to showcase the value and longevity of their products. Highlighting techniques passed down through generations and the sustainable journey behind each piece adds a unique appeal, allowing circular businesses to compete effectively without necessarily focusing on price. Social media platforms, like Instagram, have played huge roles in allowing business owners to showcase not only their products but the story behind their manufacturing, enabling them to use that story as a unique selling point. 

Getting everyone’s thoughts

After the panel’s discussion, we split off into multiple table discussions so that businesses could share their thoughts on circular strategy.

One notable moment, and an intriguing opportunity for collaboration emerged when an individual expressed interest in establishing a neighbourhood composting site but faced funding challenges. A potential collaboration materialised as Ben Hockman, Project Manager of Brighton & Hove City Council’s Shared Prosperity Fund, primarily aimed at small businesses, was also sat around the table. The fund, with a portion allocated for community activities, could potentially support the community composting initiative.

However, the road to a circular economy is not without its challenges. The breakout discussion identified barriers including the time constraints faced by SME’s, rendering them too busy to initiate circular initiatives. Attendees also voiced the need for more resources to fully embrace and implement circular practices.

To round up

Businesses can learn from Ayten, Emer, and Michael's experiences, embracing change, challenging the status quo, and ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy. As the dialogue continues and collaborations blossom, it becomes evident that overcoming these barriers will require strategic solutions, shared resources, and a concerted effort from both the public and private sectors. The commitment displayed at this event hints at a promising year ahead, filled with collaborative endeavours to propel Brighton’s circular economy forward.

With big thanks to Ayten, Emer, Michael and Vicky for making up a star panel. And thank you to Brighton & Hove Loop and Steve Creed from Circular Brighton & Hove.

Check out Brighton & Hove Loop's Instagram and Linkedin. 

For more events to network, get inspired and meet like-minded business people, head over to our events calendar.

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk