PHASE 1
The Circular Communities project’s first phase was completed in 2020.
Phase 1 involved consulting communities and collaboratively developing unique roadmaps for each of them, so that they could begin to design their own transition to a circular economy.
The original participating communities included the City of Lethbridge, City of Calgary, Town of Banff, Strathcona County, and the City of Edmonton.
Each community is unique in location, economy, and diversity, so the first step in the project involved consulting members of each community to determine unique attributes and opportunities.
This engagement took place over a focused half-day workshop and contributed to the development of tailored roadmaps, with the goal of giving communities an idea of projects and areas for exploration and growth.
PHASE 2
Phase 2 of the Circular Communities project is well underway, thanks to the generous support of additional grant funding.
This crucial phase aims to actively assist Alberta’s communities in implementing impactful circular initiatives.
The communities involved in this collaborative effort are the Town of Banff, the City of Lethbridge, and Strathcona County. The Circular Communities project intends to:
1. raise awareness of strategies that reduce waste, conserve resources, and combat climate change.
2. increase understanding of why a linear economy is not desirable and what sustainable initiatives are possible.
3. reduce environmental impacts and stimulate a circular economy.
PHASE 2 IMPLEMENTATION HIGHLIGHTS
Town of Banff Library of Things: A pioneering initiative that promotes sharing and resource conservation by establishing a community-driven Library of Things, offering access to a wide range of items that community members can borrow instead of purchasing.
City of Lethbridge: The Lethbridge Pubic Library has launched its Library of Things and Makerspace, where library members can borrow items other than books, to help them express themselves in creative ways.
RCA Circular Economy Summit: An inspiring event that brought together key stakeholders, thought leaders, and innovators to share knowledge and explore strategies for advancing circular economy practices in Alberta.
Business Case for Tool Libraries: Document that explains the benefits of establishing tool libraries within communities and the steps to build one.
Phase Two of the Circular Communities project represents a significant step towards creating sustainable and resilient communities in Alberta.
View the Business Case for Tool Libraries document here.