Round and Round

We cannot continue consuming and wasting as we do. Australia generates 2.95 tonnes of waste per person annually surpassing the average Western economy. Despite local and national targets to reduce waste and transition to a Circular Economy by 2030 only 22% of Australians are familiar with this concept and current information is fragmented, effortful and dull. Simple, all-inclusive and motivating resources are needed to shift and support residents to adopt more responsible consumption, encourage more sustainable actions and support circular behaviours to meet the national targets and do better by our community and our planet.

Round and Round is an easy-to-use, bright and bold platform for Sydney residents to access the local Circular Economy. As an aggregate platform it fills a gap in providing all-inclusive, snackable information designed to motivate and empower the community positively in Reuse, Repair and Rehoming, and in turn reduce waste, improve resource usage and foster sustainability. The ultimate goal is to expand globally and offer a digital product that rewards users for engaging with circular services. The grassroots Sydney pilot was validated through enquiry via government reports, desktop research, resident surveys and meetings with circular service businesses and specialists.

Round and Round promotes minimal acquisitions and maximal usage of belongings to reduce waste and landfill, easing pressure on waste services and ultimately our impact on the environment. By connecting residents to reuse, repair and rehoming options Round and Round fosters community connections, supports marginalised groups and provides financial benefits (you save money by being resourceful). Commercially, Round and Round advocates for circular service businesses of all sizes and specialties emphasising sustainability and encouraging growth in the sector. By spotlighting these businesses it not only drives support for their endeavours but also catalyses the shift towards a circular economy.

Research showed residents want to do better, they just don’t know how to. Core to the platform is its aggregate structure. Understanding our audience is time poor and wants the chore taken out of making better choices, Round and Round provides a comprehensive listing of services and structures them around key circular actions of ‘Reuse, Repair and Rehoming’. Information is presented in ‘snackable’ bites and with direct links to organisations. Digitally responsive, Round and Round most standout feature is its visual and verbal language. Residents don’t like shaming and teacherly materials and find current communications on consumption and waste management unmemorable and unmotivating. Round and Round’s bold, bright and playful approach inspires participation and action while conveying concepts memorably. The tone of voice and messaging mixes playfulness with information. Hand-generated illustrations and dynamic animations add to its friendly and fresh feeling. Social media compliments the directory offering more context in line with the platform’s vibrant vibe. Currently exclusive to Sydney the platform has aspirations for global expansion. Sydney was selected as it’s the team’s hometown and have access and use to the services. Future plans involve developing a digital product that incentivises residents for circular service patronage and usage.