Scotland urged to rewire its economy for a greener, fairer future

Scotland’s economic model is ripe for transformation. A new report from Zero Waste Scotland and EDAS calls for bold reform—not tweaks—to move beyond the outdated “take-make-waste” approach. With just 1.3% of materials currently reused, the case for a circular economy is clear.

This isn’t about sacrificing prosperity for sustainability. The report argues that circularity is a powerful driver of innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth—especially in sectors like housing, construction, energy, and food. It challenges decision-makers to rethink GDP as the sole success metric and instead align economic development with wellbeing and long-term value for people and planet.

Scotland now faces a pivotal moment. Will it lead the charge towards a regenerative economy—or remain tied to linear growth thinking?

Read the full article to see how circularity could shape Scotland’s economic future.