Current
trends in
Sustainability
The emergence of new trends and their impact
on businesses and the environment
1
Circular economy
Global
sustainability
trends
2023
Renewable energy
Sustainable packaging
Working from home
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Circular economy
 It refers to a model of production and
consumption that aims to keep products,
components, and materials at their highest
utility and value continuously by sharing,
leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and
recycling existing materials and products as
long as possible.
 In contrast to the traditional linear model of
“take-make-use-dispose,” a circular economy
implies reducing waste to a minimum.
 The implementation of this trend looks
promising, especially in European countries
that are leading the way compared to countries
like the United States, where companies are
more carbon emissions-focused.
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Renewable energy
As the world becomes more
and more aware of the
downsides of fossil fuels, in
recent years the use of
renewable energy has
marked the start of a new
era.
The shift towards renewable
energy sources such as solar,
wind and hydropower not
only reduces the carbon
footprint of companies but
also helps them save on
energy costs.
The wars and humanitarian
crises that started in 2022 and
are still taking place have had a
big impact on businesses. No
one wants to be held hostage by
energy prices and supply,
therefore the use of renewable
energy sources is on the up.
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Sustainable packaging
 Another meaningful trend is sustainable
packaging, which aims to use materials that
are environmentally friendly and can be
recycled or composted, such as bioplastics,
recycled paper, and cardboard.
 It involves reusable and refillable
packaging that can help reduce waste and
promote the circular economy by keeping
the packaging in use for longer.
 With the rise of e-commerce and the
increasing demand for convenience,
sustainable packaging is a trend that looks
set to continue.
Prima abilità
Seconda abilità
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Working from
home
 After the COVID-19 pandemic, working from
home has rapidly become a more regular
occurrence for most firms. The benefits of
this working style are so numerous that even
after the pandemic, businesses worldwide are
still adopting the practice.
 As there is no need to take a car or any other
means of transport, working from home leads
to an increasing reduction of carbon
emissions and urban air pollution.
 Furthermore, if office buildings are emptier,
companies can save on energy costs.
 Another remarkable advantage of remote
working lies in the fact that less paper is used
and wasted daily, as employees have no
choice but to share all their files online.
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