In a world where excessive consumption and waste generation have reached unsustainable levels, the circular economy is growing as an essential alternative to mitigate environmental impact and optimize the use of resources.

This model challenges the traditional scheme of production and consumption based on the logic of extract, produce, use and dispose , replacing it with an approach where materials and products remain in use for as long as possible, reducing the generation of  waste and encouraging its reuse, recycling or regeneration.

An example of the implementation of the circular economy in the logistics sector is CHEP ‘s business model , based on the use of reusable pallets instead of disposable alternatives.

Unlike a traditional system where pallets are manufactured, used and discarded, CHEP operates under a pallet pooling scheme , where pallets are not sold, but rather rented and circulated efficiently within the supply chain.

“Every CHEP pallet that remains in circulation means less wood used, less waste generated and a positive impact on the regeneration of ecosystems,” said Samanta Rodríguez, CHEP Sustainability Manager in Latin America.

In addition, the company has developed key strategies to maximize its positive impact on the environment under three pillars: use of certified wood, forest regeneration and education and awareness .

Thanks to this model, 426 tons of waste will be avoided in Latin America in 2024 , which is equivalent to filling more than 60 thousand garbage trucks.

Art as an expression of the circular economy

To convey the impact of the circular economy in a visual and conceptual way, the artist André-Jacques Bodin created the installation Endless Cycle , a work that transforms numbers and concepts into a sensory experience.

“I am interested in telling stories through objects. Each one has a life before it reaches my hands and, by integrating them into a work, I give them a new meaning. With Endless Cycle I wanted to illustrate the circular economy and show how something seemingly ordinary, like a pallet, can symbolize a profound change in our way of producing and consuming,” explained Bodin.

The piece is made up of 426 reusable CHEP pallets, symbolizing the amount of waste that was not sent to landfills thanks to the use of this circular model.

Its structure is based on three intertwined spirals that represent the pillars of sustainability, community, planet and market.

“These types of artistic expressions help us visualize the impact of the circular economy in a tangible way. They remind us that every action counts and that the ‘use and throw away’ model is no longer sustainable. The key is to design products and processes that reduce waste from its source,” said Martha Niño, director of Urban Sustainability at the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) .

As governments, businesses and citizens adopt circular economy principles , it is possible to build a future where waste becomes resources and regeneration is an essential part of productive activities.

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El cargo CHEP, the “art” of the circular economy apareció primero en T21.

The petrochemical industry is the pillar of multiple productive sectors, from construction to plastics and paints, which is why Patricio Gutiérrez, CEO of Conekta , has identified in this sector a strategic opportunity to promote innovative and sustainable solutions that respond to the needs of the global market.

With a focus on reusing off-specification products and creating efficient logistics networks, Conekta specializes in finding value in petrochemical products that, due to slight variations in their composition, fall outside traditional standards.

“Our goal is to give these products a second life, connecting them with industries that can use them efficiently. This not only reduces waste, but also generates a positive economic impact for manufacturers and secondary markets,” Gutiérrez said in an interview with T21.

For example, products with a slightly higher water content than allowed by the original specifications can be used in other industrial applications without compromising their functionality.

“Mexico is a petrochemical powerhouse. If you look at any industry, from construction to paint, they all have their base in petrochemicals,” he said.

In addition, it anticipated a 25% growth in the movement of petrochemicals in the country by 2026.

Mexico’s geographical position and production capacity make it a strategic bridge between the United States, Latin America and Asia.

One of Conekta’s main focuses is to promote sustainability within the petrochemical industry , which involves processes such as distillations, blends and adjustments that allow discarded products to be transformed into functional inputs for other industries.

“The world is demanding more responsible practices and the petrochemical industry is no exception. We want to lead this change, showing that it is possible to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing profitability,” said Gutiérrez.

This strategy also aligns with global trends towards the circular economy , where products are designed and transformed to extend their useful life.

The importance of logistics in the petrochemical industry

In addition to its focus on petrochemical products, Conekta recognizes logistics as an essential component of this industry.

“Moving petrochemical products requires precision and reliability, whether by land, sea or air. We are working to professionalize and optimize the logistics processes that allow these products to reach where they are needed,” explained Gutiérrez.

Conekta has identified a major challenge in the professionalization of independent transporters in Mexico, since, according to Gutiérrez, many transporters with talent and resources lack the necessary tools to compete in the global market.

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El cargo The Reinvention of the Petrochemical Industry apareció primero en T21.