In the 1970s, “circular” thinking began to develop as an alternative to linear structures. Circularity reimagines the global economy as one in which obsolescence is designed out of goods, the producer/consumer relationship is replaced by one of service provision and use – and no waste is dumped in the ground.

The New York Circular City Initiative, convened by Freshfields, applies circular thinking to one of the great cities of the world. Its vision is to create the first truly circular urban economy, one that would drive job creation and growth and elevate New York City as a global beacon for sustainability.

Cities are the perfect incubator for circularity because of the rapid rise of urban populations. They consume 78 percent of the world’s energy and produce 60 percent of its emissions. If sustainable cities can emerge, they would have a disproportionate impact on humanity’s environmental footprint.

Our research considered more than 50 potential levers that could create circularity in New York. Each was assessed for its impact on jobs, economic growth and the environment.

Through this work we have developed an approach that could create over 11,000 new jobs across the income spectrum, deliver over $11bn in economic benefits and reduce waste
to zero.

Circularity – and the economic recovery – requires multi-sector collaboration, which is why the New York Circular City Initiative is such a powerful vehicle for change. It brings together representatives from city government, business and civil society to form a group with unique influence on the future direction of New York. Its members can be found on page 2, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to each of them. From Mayor de Blasio’s Office of Climate Policy to the New York City Economic Development Corporation, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Circle Economy, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and the many businesses involved in the initiative, the circularity model set out in this report is supported by those with the power to make it a reality.

This is the first step on a journey that we believe will lead to a circular New York City. We are delighted that the Economic Development Corporation will host the New York Circular City Initiative and take this important work forward.

Imagine a New York City where no waste is sent to landfill, environmental pollution is minimized, and thousands of good jobs for people of all social and economic backgrounds are created through the intelligent use of products and raw materials. In other words a city that is thriving, green and just. This is the vision of the New York Circular City Initiative, which can be achieved through creative collaboration between city agencies, businesses and the public sector.

The initiative, convened by international law firm Freshfields, seeks to identify the most effective levers to help the City of New York make the transition toward the circular economy. The members of the initiative each brings a unique combination of expertise and influence that will be critical to delivering a circular New York City.

Our research approach (see page 15) analyzed 10 levers for change that can help the city, its businesses and financial institutions make the transition toward the circular economy.

In conducting our research we have uncovered a range of potential approaches that can deliver jobs and economic opportunities, and address critical environmental challenges. These are explained in detail in the report, but the table below highlights the potential offered by each of these levers.