The concept of a “circular economy” or “closed-loop” production is attracting growing interest—a reflection of its versatility in application, environmental benefits, and potential for cost savings. As a result of the number of events and developments in the field, the OAS will produce a monthly newsletter, beginning this month, to focus exclusively on the topic.

The new publication will provide ongoing, detailed information on the second phase of the ECPA initiative “Closed Looped Cycle Production in the Americas,” which is being implemented in Colombia, Panama, and Trinidad and Tobago. The aim is not only to keep program participants in those countries informed about specific events, but to update readers on theoretical and practical advancements in the field and continue to build awareness throughout the region on the value of the concept.

“Closing the loop” refers to an approach to production in which materials that have reached the end of their useful life can be recycled, repurposed, or returned to the earth as nutrients. It is inspired by the innovative “cradle-to-cradle” (C2C) model, which rethinks the way products are designed, manufactured, and delivered so as to reach maximum sustainability. In addition to its environmental benefits, this approach can improve the economic performance of companies, particularly small and medium-sized businesses.

The OAS Department of Sustainable Development implements the initiative in alliance with several strategic partners: the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas, Pathways to Prosperity in the Americas, the Low Emissions Development Strategies (LEDS) Global Partnership, and the C2C-Centre. The initiative is funded by the U.S. government, through its Permanent Mission to the OAS.

For more information or to receive the new monthly newsletter, please contact Andrea Herrera (jaherrera@oas.org).