In our current economy, we take resources to make products and eventually throw them away as waste – the process is linear. In a circular economy, by contrast, we aim to stop waste being produced in the first place.
Waste can be a resource, and changing the mindset is the first critical step to a circular economy. A circular economy represents a shift away from the current linear economic model to managing products and resources. Ultimately aiming to reduce, reuse and recycle at every opportunity.
Why is it important?
The move to a circular economy is important because it better recognises that natural resources are finite, and the current linear economy generates a lot of wasted materials.
What are some of the challenges?
Of course, moving to a circular economy is not without its challenges. These include:
- Complex supply chains and validating them, ensuring commercial control but also security of supply
- Up-front costs and investment when using environmentally friendly products
- Changing existing processes to waste generation
- Cooperation and collaboration challenges – with employees, partners, and consumers
SFI Australia – transitioning towards a circular economy
At SFI Australia, we aim to transition to a circular economy by identifying opportunities to implement sustainable processes such as our asset buy-back program to help us move towards a net zero carbon future. This is achieved through innovations such as carbon neutral Traffi gloves and offering hire options which extends the life of tooling and equipment.
Our end-to-end solutions work within a circular economy model by employing practices that ensure sustainable materials management. In doing so, we optimise processes and products for lower material and waste intensity, taking a proactive approach to improve environmental performance.
Where possible, SFI Australia are moving away from single use consumables to extend the lifespan of products and reduce waste. This is not always possible where safety and hazards are a concern and that’s why we reuse everything we can and recycle what we can’t. Our patented Monitor logistics management system tracks compliance and stock levels, giving you greater control over wastage and unnecessary consumption.
A circular economy underpins sustainability for any business operations. This results in reduced greenhouse emissions, product life extension, reducing the need for raw materials and the reuse and refurbishing of products. Equipment rental also helps consumers from needing to take physical ownership of equipment – reducing costs, storage, product devaluation and waste. We also offer a dedicated Circular Economy online store for used tooling and equipment, helping save you up to 60% as well as reducing the impact on the environment.
Through these processes, SFI Australia are working to drive the next innovation cycle through managing sites and processes to ensure maximum usage efficiency.
The future is circular
We believe a second life for tools and industrial supplies is the new normal.
The future is circular, not just in the wider economy, but also in our daily lives. As we become more aware of the impact of our actions, we are better equipped and incentivised to make informed and effective decisions, and strive to create a loop where we Repair – Repurpose – Reuse.
Join us on the journey as we transition to a circular economy.
Let’s go #beyondequipment
__
Since 1977, we have been delivering intelligent end-to-end solutions for the Australian mining, energy, construction, and manufacturing industries. We go beyond equipment, offering expertise across industrial supplies, tool hire and sales, shutdowns, and store facilities. But
above all else, we deliver outstanding service.
Our proud legacy has been built on consistency and innovation. We reduce downtime on sites and provide unmatched logistical efficiencies with our bespoke industry-leading software, Monitor.
Our team takes the time to listen and understand before working tirelessly to deliver successful outcomes. We have the strength and capacity to tackle every challenge. When you need a partner that won’t let you down — we’re up for it.