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NotesESSTopic 1.3Circular economy
Back to ESS Topics
1.3.211 min read

Circular economy

IB Environmental Systems and Societies • Unit 1

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Circular economy

Big idea: Replace the old straight line 'take → make → waste' with a loop that keeps materials in use.

Linear economy (unsustainable)

  • Take raw resources
  • Make products
  • Use, then throw away (waste)

Circular economy (sustainable)

  • Design out waste
  • Reuse, repair & recycle materials
  • Regenerate nature
Uses: cuts waste & emissions, saves resources, supports local economies. Limitations: needs new infrastructure & rules; some materials can't be fully recycled.

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IB Exam Questions on Circular economy

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Practice Topic 1.3.21 QuestionsBrowse All ESS Topics

How Circular economy Appears in IB Exams

Examiners use specific command terms when asking about this topic. Here's what to expect:

Define

Give the precise meaning of key terms related to Circular economy.

AO1
Describe

Give a detailed account of processes or features in Circular economy.

AO2
Explain

Give reasons WHY — cause and effect within Circular economy.

AO3
Evaluate

Weigh strengths AND limitations of approaches in Circular economy.

AO3
Discuss

Present arguments FOR and AGAINST with a balanced conclusion.

AO3

See the full IB Command Terms guide →

Related ESS Topics

Continue learning with these related topics from the same unit:

1.1.1Perspectives
1.1.2What shapes a perspective
1.1.3Values
1.1.4Where values show
View all ESS topics

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1.3.20Doughnut economics
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Organisms and species2.1.1

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