Circular Innovation Council/Conseil de L'Innovation Circulaire

The Circular Innovation Council, also known as Conseil de L'Innovation Circulaire, is a Canadian nonprofit organization with a mission to advance the circular economy in Canada. Registered under the business number 119112118RR0001, it aims to decouple economic activity from the consumption of finite resources by promoting resource efficiency and sustainability.

Overview

The Circular Innovation Council is a national, membership-based organization with a history spanning over 40 years. It focuses on educating and empowering Canadians to participate in the transition to a circular economy, recognizing its environmental, economic, and social benefits. Through research, policy development, programs, and pilots, the organization works with its members and partners to implement circular economy concepts.

Programs and Initiatives

The Council engages in various initiatives to promote circular business models, products, and services. A notable example is its collaboration with major Canadian grocery retailers, including Metro, Sobeys, and Walmart Canada, to develop innovative reuse programs. For instance, a reusable food container pilot was announced in 2024, aiming to reduce single-use plastic waste through collaborative models.

Additionally, the organization addresses food waste by supporting projects like the Guelph-Wellington’s Commercial Food Waste Diversion Collective. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly by addressing issues such as food insecurity and climate change.

Circular Procurement

The Council also provides resources on circular procurement, offering guidance, case studies, best practices, policies, and purchasing tools. These resources are designed to support sustainability practitioners and leaders in Canada, though they also offer insights applicable globally.

Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

The organization is committed to contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its programs. By diverting food waste and promoting sustainable practices, it helps address several of these goals, such as reducing inequality and mitigating climate change.

Overall, the Circular Innovation Council plays a significant role in advancing Canada's transition to a circular economy, focusing on collaborative and innovative solutions to environmental and social challenges.