東京大學梅田靖教授對談「循環經濟時代的商機」

常見問題

Q: What is the circular economy?

A: The circular economy is an economic model that aims to eliminate waste and the continual use of resources. It is in contrast to a traditional linear economy, which follows a 'take-make-dispose' model.

Q: Why is the circular economy important for Japan?

A: As a resource-poor nation, Japan can benefit significantly from the circular economy by reducing its reliance on imported raw materials, enhancing resource security, and fostering new business opportunities through efficient resource utilization and value creation from existing products and services.

Q: What are the key trends in the European market regarding the circular economy?

A: Europe is a leader in the circular economy, actively developing regulations, certification systems, and leveraging digital technologies to create efficient resource procurement systems. The focus is on making 'circulating' profitable and secure, shifting towards a service-based economy.

Q: What is the connection between the circular economy and economic security?

A: In an era of increasing geopolitical instability and potential resource scarcity, the circular economy contributes to economic security by enabling countries to better manage and utilize their own resources, reducing dependence on external supply chains, and fostering domestic industrial resilience.

Q: What is the proposed strategy for Japanese companies?

A: The strategy involves shifting from a mass-production model to one that maximizes value across the entire product lifecycle. This includes high-efficiency resource procurement and transitioning from selling products to providing services, ensuring products are utilized to their full potential.