How do you measure circularity?

“You can’t manage what you don’t measure.” So were the wise words of legendary Peter Drucker.

So what does this mean for circularity?

This was a key topic we covered this month, with one big caveat.

We must not get lost in the data analysis. We must take action towards circularity.

Key Takeaways from our Latest Podcasts

EP33: Measuring Circularity Beyond Carbon

In this conversation, Stephanie McLarty interviews Heidi Frasure, CAPM of Green Standards on how to measure circularity and get out of “analysis paralysis.”

Key Takeaways:

• Measuring circularity goes beyond just focusing on carbon and should include other measures such as waste reduction, social impact, and environmental costs.
• Simplicity and common sense are key in driving circularity. Don't get stuck in analysis paralysis and focus on practical solutions.
• Collaboration and partnerships are essential in creating a circular workplace. It requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including original equipment manufacturers, end-of-life solution providers, and policy makers.
• Taking meaningful action is crucial. Don't be afraid to do the right thing, even if there may not be a direct financial return on investment. Everyone can be an agent of change within their organization.
• Measuring circularity and sharing the data can help drive action and create transparency. It can also inspire employees and stakeholders to be more engaged in sustainability initiatives.

Listen to the full episode on our website, Apple or Spotify.

EP32: Cybersecurity Meets Circularity

Can preventable data breaches be a thing of the past? Stephanie sat down with Kyle Marks of Retire-IT to understand effective IT asset management, and how this can drive circularity.

Key Takeaways:

• There are significant risks, but also opportunities, if IT asset management is not done well. We discussed why Kyle launched a picture book to educate on this: Where the IT Lifecycle Ends: How Non-Compliant IT Asset Disposition Creates Unnecessary Exposure.
• Asset tags are a very simple but effective tool for IT asset management and disposition.
• Follow the money. #Cybersecurity budgets are usually well-funded, so leverage this angle to fund the "G" of Governance in ESG and ultimately circularity. ?
• Non-compliance with IT asset disposition regulations can lead to significant business, financial, and personal risks for executives.
• The SEC's involvement in ITAD as a cybersecurity risk has raised the stakes for companies to pay more attention to compliance and risk management. Equipment verification is crucial for capturing accurate inventory and preventing inventory capture problems.
• The future of ITAD may involve increased disclosure and regulatory scrutiny, posing potential risks for non-compliance.

Listen to the full episode on our website, Apple or Spotify.

Subscribe to our podcast on Apple or Spotify to get the latest episodes.

Trends + News We’re Watching

• Canada’s new anti-greenwashing law is one of the most notable pieces of legislation for businesses in many years. Many companies are removing website content and destroying old marketing material because claims are not substantiated and the fines can be significant. KPMG published a report on how to manage your organization’s risk with respect to greenwashing: read more here.
• After eliminating plastic from its own consumer electronics packaging, Google wants to help other companies do the same. Google released a 70-page guide to share their own lessons and best practices. Read more here.

In the Know

• In September, find Quantum at MISA BC, the Canadian Stewardship Conference, and more!

And remember, if you need with remarketing or recycling your redundant IT equipment:

We’d love to chat. Send us a message or contact us through the Quantum website.

Thank you for being a circular future champion in your company and beyond.