How Smart Contracts Power the Web3 Ecosystem?

The evolution of the internet has been a hot topic for discussion in the domain of technology, leading to growing awareness about Web3. Many people know it only as the third generation of the internet that promises a decentralized web experience to every user. One of the interesting highlights underlining this new phenomenon is the smart contracts web3 interplay that has powered many projects.

The first phase of the internet involved the use of static pages that published information. In the next stage, the internet introduced social media and interactive applications focused on user-generated content. Web3, the latest phase of the internet, relies on smart contracts for creating smart contracts, distributed ledger technologies, and tokenized assets. Let us discover some insights on how smart contracts empower the Web3 ecosystem.

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Understanding the Value of Web3

The first thing that you must address while learning about the relationship between Web3 and smart contracts is the definition of web3. It has gained the attention of corporate giants as well as startups worldwide for many reasons. One of the key elements that power the web3 ecosystem is blockchain technology, which helps in promoting the idea of tokenomics and decentralization. 

The impact of smart contracts in Web3 ecosystem depends completely on the involvement of blockchain in Web3 projects. Web3 has achieved significant improvements over web2, such as empowering users with control over their own data. Big companies could no longer profit from the massive collections of personal data of internet users.

Web3 not only provides a decentralized network with transparency and immutability but also provides new avenues for innovation. Blockchain and smart contracts have helped in creating various web3 projects that offer decentralized art, games, finance apps and digital assets. With Web3, users will play an integral role in shaping digital interactions and independent economies.     

Definition of Smart Contracts

Web3 represents a massive leap in the growth of the internet, and smart contracts are a major driving force behind the revolution. What makes these contracts so powerful? Smart contracts are automated programs running on a blockchain network without any intermediaries. Take the web3 smart contract example, and you will notice how it differs from manual contracts. First of all, smart contracts don’t require someone to enforce the terms and conditions of the contract. Therefore, you don’t have to rely on notaries, lawyers, or other middlemen or the time-consuming processes to execute contracts.

You can think of a smart contract as a vending machine programmed to dish out goods according to their price. The vending machine does not require a third party, such as a shopkeeper or retailer, as the intermediary between you and the machine. When the vending machine checks that you have paid the price for a product, it takes the money and gives you the goods to complete the transaction. 

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Diving Deeper into Working of Smart Contracts

The definition of smart contracts emphasizes more on their identity as self-executing agreements scripted in programs that run on a blockchain. The blockchain protocol or platform where you deploy the smart contract is responsible for providing the infrastructure to execute the contract. For example, Ethereum blockchain provides the Ethereum Virtual Machine or EVM as the infrastructure for running smart contracts. It is also important to remember that smart contracts are immutable and cannot be changed once you deploy them on a blockchain. 

The most common programming languages for writing smart contracts are Solidity and Vyper. If you have created an SOL smart contract, then it will go through rigorous verification process. Subsequently, the blockchain network must reach consensus on validation of the authenticity of the smart contract. Users can invoke the public functions in the contract and the code self-executes and changes state upon meeting specific conditions.

What Value Do Smart Contracts Bring to Web3?

The best way to understand the role of smart contracts in the world of Web3 is through an overview of their benefits. Smart contracts bring the assurance of the following advantages that make them the founding blocks of web3.

  • Trustless Nature and Immutability 

The foremost aspect of smart contracts that answers questions like “What are smart contracts in web3?” is their trustless nature. Smart contracts run on the basis of design rather than following authority. You don’t have to trust anyone else to complete a transaction with smart contracts. On top of it, deploying smart contracts on a blockchain ensures immutability that enhances the security and integrity of every web3 transaction.

  • Cost Reduction 

The removal of intermediaries according to principles of decentralization in web3 happens due to smart contracts. Without the involvement of intermediaries, you can notice dramatic drops in operational costs. Smart contracts help in bypassing notaries, banks, and lawyers to offer peer-to-peer transactions. As a result, smart contracts help in making various processes in the web3 space more efficient and leaner. 

  • Faster Transactions 

The next important reason for which smart contracts are an inevitable part of web3 is the assurance of faster transactions. Smart contracts facilitate automation that makes transaction settlement faster, almost in real-time. The smart contracts web3 relationship ensures that web3 transactions don’t depend on third-party approvals. The self-executing agreements will execute certain conditions of transactions when they notice compliance with predefined rules.

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Exploring the Utility of Smart Contracts in Web3 

The traits of smart contracts that fit perfectly with the vision of Web3 showcase a glimpse of how smart contracts are relevant in Web3. On the other hand, you must also dive into practical examples of implementing smart contracts in the web3 landscape. The following use cases of smart contracts in the world of web3 can help you weigh their significance. 

  • Decentralized Finance 

The biggest problem with traditional financial systems is the centralized nature of operations, which slows down transactions. On top of it, traditional finance is inaccessible to millions of people on the planet. Another drawback of traditional finance is the reliance on intermediaries, which leads to higher costs and more inefficiency. 

The proven solution to these problems will be to write smart contract for Ethereum or any blockchain of your choice for a DeFi application. Smart contracts serve as the driving force behind many popular DeFi platforms that offer peer-to-peer financial services. Smart contracts help in automating different DeFi services such as lending, insurance, and trading, alongside ensuring secure transactions.

Considering the role of DeFi in the Web3 ecosystem, it is reasonable to believe that smart contracts will redefine the boundaries of financial services. With the help of smart contracts, DeFi platforms in the web3 space can allow anyone to participate in global financial markets. 

  • Non-Fungible Tokens 

Non-fungible tokens or NFTs, are another prominent offering in the web3 space alongside DeFi solutions. The popularity of NFTs has shattered many conventional ideas about digital assets and their ownership. As NFTs emerge as one of the vital elements for the economies of Web3, it is important to acknowledge how smart contracts drive NFTs. Non-fungible tokens use smart contracts to represent the ownership of digital assets on a blockchain, thereby maintaining a trail of ownership.

You might wonder about the feasibility of smart contracts in the domain of web3 with respect to NFTs. Interestingly, NFTs are in web3 for the long run as they bring a new experience of digital art, virtual real estate, and gaming. The use of smart contracts in Web3 ecosystem has brought new privileges for users to create and sell NFTs. On top of it, smart contracts also help in building NFTs that represent in-game assets which players can own and trade.

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  • Decentralized Autonomous Organizations

Another promising area where you can notice the influence of smart contracts over the domain of web3 is the development of DAOs. Decentralized Autonomous Organizations or DAOs use smart contracts to ensure decentralized and automated decision-making. The design of DAOs differs from traditional centralized organizations that follow a specific hierarchy. 

DAOs can set a new precedent in the web3 space by enabling the creation of organizations that are governed by the communities. DAOs also provide the ideal foundation to foster global collaboration that allows individuals to contribute to Web3 projects. You can notice how smart contracts have a huge role in promoting the growth of Web3, as more people can contribute through DAOs.       

Challenges of Using Smart Contracts in the Web3 Space

The detailed understanding of discussions on “What are smart contracts in web3?” reveals some important insights on the potential of smart contracts. At the same time, you must also know about their limitations. Smart contracts are vulnerable to scalability problems and require complex technical expertise to work with. On top of it, the security of smart contracts depends completely on the code thereby making many web3 applications vulnerable to security risks.

Final Thoughts 

The growth of the internet with the arrival of Web3 brings new promises for users. Blockchain technology and smart contracts have a significant role in driving the Web3 revolution by supporting many applications. You can use any web3 smart contract example to understand that smart contracts make web3 projects more efficient and leaner. On top of it, the traits of smart contracts, such as immutability and transparency also align with the vision of web3. Smart contracts are the building blocks of web3 as they drive DeFi solutions, NFTs, and DAOs. As Web3 expands further, smart contracts will become the most valuable assets in the domain of technology.

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*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

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On-Chain vs. Off-Chain Crypto Transactions Explained

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies have been garnering the top spots in news headlines for their unique advantages. With the help of blockchain, cryptocurrencies have transformed our traditional views of money and financial transactions. Do you know about the two broad categories of crypto transactions? The discussions about on-chain and off-chain transactions deserve the attention of everyone interested in blockchain technology and crypto transactions. The knowledge of differences between these two types of transactions is an essential requirement to find a way through the modern digital landscape. This post aims to discover the on-chain vs off-chain crypto transactions differences.

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Learning the Basics of On-Chain and Off-Chain Crypto Transactions

Any beginner in the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies would notice the benefits of security, transparency, and immutability in crypto transactions. Financial transactions on blockchain networks are completely decentralized and under the supervision of peers without any intermediaries. 

With the advantages of crypto transactions on blockchain ledgers taking the limelight, the necessity of off-chain crypto transactions has become more evident. The two types of crypto transactions provide distinctive approaches to deal with some issues that come with blockchain technology. 

On-chain transactions are the primary type of crypto transactions that build the secure and transparent framework of the blockchain ecosystem. On the contrary, the answers to “What is an example of an off-chain transaction?” point at the specific use cases which need more flexibility. Once you learn how both types of crypto transactions work, it will be easier for you to use them for strategic advantages.

Exploring the Fundamentals of On-Chain Transactions

As the name implies, on-chain transactions are the crypto transactions which take place on a blockchain ledger. On-chain transactions are recorded on the public, distributed ledger of the blockchain network, allowing everyone to view the transactions. You can notice how on-chain transactions boast of the advantage of unparalleled transparency. 

One of the ideal ways to start the on-chain vs. off-chain transactions comparison involves understanding how on-chain transactions work. Upon initiating an on-chain transaction, the details of the transaction will be broadcasted throughout the network. The blockchain relies on consensus mechanisms to record the transaction securely on its ledger. After validating transactions and adding them to blocks, they become an immutable component of the ledger.

The best thing about on-chain crypto transactions is the assurance of trustless nature. On-chain transactions don’t depend on intermediaries thereby implying that the parties involved in a transaction don’t have to trust each other. On the contrary, on-chain transactions are significantly slower and require more resources. At the same time, you should not ignore the scalability issues associated with on-chain transactions. 

Some of the prominent examples of on-chain transactions are the ones conducted on Ethereum and Bitcoin blockchain.

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Understanding the Magic of Off-Chain Transactions

The difference between on-chain and off-chain crypto transactions is clearly visible once again in the name itself. Off-chain transactions happen outside the primary blockchain network on layer-2 networks or chains that operate outside the main blockchain. The most common example of conducting off-chain crypto transactions points to payment channels that provide secure off-chain transfer of digital assets. Off-chain crypto transactions are settled outside the main blockchain and go for the final settlement on the main chain.

The notion of transferring transactions off the primary blockchain reduces the burden on the main network. It plays a major role in improving efficiency and scalability over traditional on-chain transactions. Off-chain blockchain transactions can support more transaction volume by moving transactions outside the main blockchain. On the contrary, off-chain proceedings also present the risks of emerging complexities and evolving security threats. 

The most noticeable example of off-chain crypto transactions is visible on layer-2 networks such as Polygon, Lightning Network, and Optimism. 

Unraveling the Differences between On-Chain and Off-Chain Crypto Transactions  

The primary differences between off-chain and on-chain transactions revolve around operational mechanisms and what they mean for users. On-chain transactions are more trustworthy and secure due to direct operation on the main blockchain. At the same time, on-chain crypto transactions are slower and could become more expensive when the network is congested. 

The on-chain vs. off-chain crypto transactions comparison also provides a similar painting of off-chain crypto transactions. Off-chain blockchain transactions are faster and more cost-efficient than on-chain transactions, albeit with reduced security. The following sections provide a clear description of the comparison between off-chain and on-chain transactions.

  • Relationship with Primary Blockchain

The foremost difference between on-chain and off-chain crypto transactions is visible in their relationship with the primary blockchain. On-chain crypto transactions happen on the main blockchain, where they go through validation before documentation on the ledger. The documentation of on-chain transactions ensures more security and transparency. 

On the contrary, off-chain crypto transactions rely on secondary networks or layers to ensure faster transactions. Off-chain transactions happen outside the primary blockchain, thereby suggesting that they may not be documented on the main chain.

  • Level of Decentralization 

You can also compare on-chain transactions with off-chain crypto transactions by noting their level of decentralization. The foremost trait of on-chain transactions is the assurance of all the advantages associated with blockchain technology. For instance, on-chain crypto transactions follow the principles of transparency, decentralization, and immutability. 

On the other hand, off-chain crypto transactions can introduce some hints of centralization depending on the transaction scenario. Off-chain transaction proceedings may involve trusting the requirements of secondary layers or transaction pooling with one provider. 

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  • Transaction Speed

One of the crucial pointers for comparing on-chain transactions with their off-chain counterparts is transaction speed. On-chain transactions are slower as they require time to achieve consensus from different participants in the network. The speed of on-chain transactions takes a huge hit at the time of heavy network congestion. With multiple people trying to get their transactions through on the network, on-chain transactions may have to wait longer in queue. 

The on-chain vs. off-chain transactions comparison highlights how off-chain transactions don’t depend on consensus mechanisms. Off-chain crypto transactions take away transactions from the main network and prevent network congestion alongside ensuring faster transaction settlement.

  • Transaction Cost

Another prominent aspect that you should consider while comparing on-chain with off-chain crypto transactions is the cost of transaction settlement. On-chain transactions impose network fees alongside the transaction charges. It is important to know that the network fees can become unreasonably higher during heavy network congestion. Therefore, you might end up spending more than the transaction itself when you attempt an on-chain crypto transaction during peak network traffic. 

Off-chain crypto transactions don’t impose the burden of such liabilities as they don’t demand the costs that come with on-chain transactions. 

  • Suitable Use Cases

The most valuable point for comparison between on-chain and off-chain crypto transactions is their usability. Both types of transactions share equal significance in the blockchain and crypto ecosystem with their unique applications. The on-chain vs. off-chain crypto transactions debate focuses on how the two transaction modalities cater to different user requirements. On-chain transactions are more useful for situations that need unparalleled security and immutability. On-chain transactions fit the bill perfectly for high-stakes transactions that cannot afford any risks of fraud.

Off-chain crypto transactions will be ideal for scenarios that rely on reducing costs and increasing speed while addressing scalability requirements. You can use off-chain approach in small-scale and frequent transactions such as digital payments for everyday purchases. 

Final Thoughts 

The comparison between off-chain and on-chain transactions gives a clear impression of their significance in the blockchain ecosystem. Awareness of the on-chain vs off-chain crypto transactions can help you identify the ideal modality for different use cases. As you learn more about each type of crypto transaction, you will discover its unique benefits and limitations. Expand your knowledge of cryptocurrency transactions and their working with the best resources now.

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*Disclaimer: The article should not be taken as, and is not intended to provide any investment advice. Claims made in this article do not constitute investment advice and should not be taken as such. 101 Blockchains shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this article. Do your own research!

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Haringey issued £1.3m in fly-tipping and littering fines last year

Fly-tipping

Haringey Council issued 2,554 fines for fly-tipping and littering totalling £1,393,350 between April 2024 and March 2025.

A recent survey by the council found overwhelming support for stricter measures to tackle fly-tipping and littering.

It revealed that 96% of residents were in favour of imposing fines on fly-tippers, while 94% supported penalties for littering and dog fouling.

Local businesses and community organisations also voiced their concerns, with 83% backing fines to combat fly-tipping.

Following this, the council said it deployed an additional 15 environmental enforcement officers as part of its existing team to combat fly-tipping and littering.

Commenting on the announcement, councillor Seema Chandwani, Cabinet Member for Tackling Inequality and Resident Services, said: “The message from these figures is clear. Our residents and businesses demanded stronger measures, and we have delivered.

“Waste dumping and littering remain significant concerns in our borough, as voiced by our community, and we are committed to doing everything we can to put an end to this. Those who refuse to contribute and instead damage our beautiful spaces will be held accountable.”

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Veolia launches new 25,000-per-year Hazardous Waste Facility

Veolia

Operations begin at Veolia’s new 25,000 tonnes per annum Hazardous Waste Transfer Station in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

The facility will serve the chemical, agrochemical, pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries in the region.

UK resource management company Veolia says the facility will provide the full range of recycling and treatment options for hazardous waste.

Veolia already operates seven existing hazardous waste transfer stations and supporting treatment infrastructure in the UK.

The new site houses a new laboratory for analysing and identifying wastes, which will segregate each item based on potential hazards and physical and chemical properties. After analysis, the waste streams will go on to the appropriate treatment.

By using the latest technologies we can now more effectively treat this waste, move it up the waste hierarchy…

The facility will also be supported by Veolia’s mobile chemist service, Chempac, for segregation, labelling, packing, collection, treatment and disposal of hazardous and laboratory chemical wastes.

Veolia says different waste streams will be tracked by its end-to-end cloud-based system.

Nicola Henshaw, Managing Director Hazardous at Veolia UK said the launch of the facility marks a significant milestone in bringing the “benefit of world-leading waste management expertise” to the North East.

Commenting on the new process, Henshaw said: “Treating these complex materials is an integral part of Veolia Group’s GreenUp strategy to help key industries help protect people and the environment.

“By using the latest technologies we can now more effectively treat this waste, move it up the waste hierarchy,  lower the carbon footprint and safeguard our environment.”

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The Intersection of AI and Web3: Smarter Decentralized Applications

In the current era, AI and Web3 are among the most groundbreaking technologies today. AI is an advanced technology which enables machines and systems to learn, think, and reason like human beings. Web3, on the other hand, refers to a collection of technologies intended to decentralize the Internet. The convergence of AI and Web3 has undoubtedly unlocked new possibilities for a decentralized future.

The intersection of AI and Web3 holds great promise. When Web3’s decentralized ecosystem is combined with AI’s capabilities, it can enable the development of more intelligent decentralized applications. Let’s explore this exciting potential in detail. 

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An Insight into Web3

To grasp the true potential of “Web3 artificial intelligence,” it is essential to first understand Web3 technology. Web3 basically represents the next generation of the internet. Its defining characteristics include decentralization and blockchain technology. Moreover, Web3 empowers users by giving them control over their digital identities and data.

Web3 has certainly been revolutionary in its own right. This is because it has moved away from Web 2.0 which was its predecessor. Web3 is commonly referred to as a decentralized web since it is based on the concept of decentralization. Some of the core pillars of web technology are blockchain, decentralized apps (dApps), and smart contracts. These elements perfectly align with the core principles of web3 since they prioritize decentralization, as well as transparency.  

An Insight into Artificial Intelligence

The emergence of artificial intelligence marks a new frontier in the technological landscape. It enables the simulation of human intelligence in machines, allowing them to think, learn, and exhibit intelligent behavior. AI encompasses various technologies, including machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.

Like Web3, AI is regarded as a groundbreaking technology of the modern era. It has transformed how humans interact with technology and the role it plays in daily life. AI’s core capabilities such as automation, predictive analysis, and data analytics, make it highly relevant to humans.

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Intersection between AI and Web3

Are you wondering – ‘What is the intersection of AI and Web3?’ The answer is quite simple. The intersection of AI and Web3 involves the synergy between these revolutionary technologies where AI capabilities help to enhance web3. Similarly, the merger of these two technologies also ensures web3 technologies play a catalytic role to address the concerns relating to AI. As a result, a win-win situation is created for both these technologies.

It is essential to bear in mind, the synergy between AI and Web3 is exemplified through dApps. In fact, peer-to-peer machine learning capitalizes on the power of distributed networks. Thus, it becomes possible for the devices to adopt a collaborative approach and learn from one another. This collaboration does not have an adverse impact on the privacy aspects of users. 

The merger of AI and Web3 with each other has certainly been transformational. The unique collaboration between the capabilities of these technologies has led to the emergence of smarter decentralized applications. This is because the unique approach helps in decentralizing the training process. Thus, it enables individual nodes to play a major role and contribute to the collective betterment of AI models. The synergy between AI and Web3 certainly holds immense promise. It is evident from the fact several decentralized AI projects have come into existence in the real-world setting, such as Ocean Protocol, AIOZ, and many more.

Concept of Smarter Decentralized Applications

A unique concept has come into existence in recent times due to the fusion of AI and web3 is smarter decentralized applications. The combination of the two novel technologies has certainly given rise to a host of new opportunities such as automation of decision-making, improvement of security, as well as supporting decentralization.  

By harnessing the capabilities of both technologies, developers have been focusing on creating effective and smarter decentralized applications. Their ultimate purpose is to refine the existing landscape of dApps and make them better. By utilizing the underlying technologies involved in AI such as natural language processing techniques as well as machine learning algorithms they are able to transform diverse tasks such as fraud detection, data validation, and recommendation systems. Moreover, by integrating AI capabilities, it is possible to carry out rigorous sentimental analysis within Web3 solutions. 

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Benefits of Merger of AI and web3 

The intersection of AI and web3 has undoubtedly broadened the horizons of the respective technologies. By leveraging the capabilities and functionalities of one another, it is possible to witness several benefits. The combination of AI and web3 has given rise to the following benefits: 

  • Better Security

By harnessing AI capabilities in the web3 realm the security relating to dApps has certainly enhanced. This is because of smart automation. In the decentralization application landscape, it is undoubtedly a major feat one cannot ignore. 

Since AI has the capability to locate patterns in datasets it can enhance security features by pinpointing security concerns. Therefore, there is an opportunity to prevent possible security breaches in the web3 domain. With the help of AI-powered systems, there is also the opportunity to monitor activities within the network and detect abnormal behaviors. 

  • Improved User Experience 

The emergence of smarter decentralized applications is certainly a breath of fresh air for users. These d-Apps which leverage AI capabilities can enhance the overall experience of users. The experience of users can certainly be improved because of AI-based personalization. 

Users have the opportunity to enjoy a tailored experience to perfectly aligns with their needs and expectations. From the perspective of businesses, they have the opportunity to develop AI-based recommendation systems so they can deliver value to their audience. Thus, the creation of smarter decentralized applications can help drive user engagement and promote user satisfaction. 

  • AI-based Blockchain Analytics

The integration of AI technology into web3, especially blockchain holds immense promise. It has led to the emergence of AI-powered blockchain analytics. Thus, by leveraging AI capabilities, it is possible to evaluate a large volume of blockchain data to gain valuable insights. 

The rigorous analysis can enable developers to integrate new features and functionalities into dApps, thus making them smarter and more efficient. Moreover, AI technology can play a strategic role as it can aid in keeping track of diverse transactions within blockchain networks and facilitate compliance. There exists immense potential for a decentralized AI blockchain which remains to be entirely explored.

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Associated Challenges

The intersection of Artificial Intelligence and web3 has certainly been transformational, to say the least. However, it is equally important to take into consideration the challenges and concerns that may arise. In order to get a holistic insight into their merger it is essential for you to look at the following challenges.  

  • Challenges relating to bias as well as accountability 

A serious issue you cannot negate at any cost revolves around the accountability aspect. There exists limited clarity relating to the accountability of decisions those are made by utilizing AI technology. There also exists the possibility of bias that may distort decisions made with the help of AI in the Web3 arena. 

  • Scalability concerns

A key concern in merging AI with web technologies is scalability. Developers must conduct rigorous research to explore Layer 2 solutions and optimize algorithms. Focusing on these aspects ensures high-efficiency AI processing within decentralized networks. 

  • Ensuring interoperability

The perfect merger of AI technology and web3 technology must be supported by top interoperability, thus it is fundamental to prioritize transparent communication and engagement so between diverse web3 platforms as well as AI solutions and systems. This is a major technical concern developers need to overcome so that the interaction of AI and web3 can be ideal. 

Conclusion

The intersection of groundbreaking technologies, including web3 and AI, has widened the boundaries of the digital realm. The fusion of these technologies has led to the development of smarter decentralized applications. 

By leveraging the capabilities of AI within the web3 domain, it has been possible to improve diverse areas relating to security, user experience, and blockchain analytics. However, the merger of these transformative technologies has also given rise to challenges like bias and accountability, scalability, and interoperability. It is fundamental to address these concerns so that optimum value can be derived from their merger.

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65% of Brits says Easter eggs are excessively packaged

Easter egg

People in Britain are expected to eat 123 million eggs this Easter as 65% say that Easter eggs are excessively packaged, according to new research from DS Smith.

The research, which surveyed 2,000 adults across the UK, found that the average adult receives three chocolate eggs each Easter, which generates an estimated 8,000 tonnes of packaging every year.

Sustainable packaging company DS Smith commissioned the research to understand the scale of packaging waste generated each Easter.

The research found that while 89% of people in Britain recycle the cardboard boxes Easter eggs are packaged in, 36% say they throw the egg’s foil in a refuse bin and 17% don’t recycle the plastic box it comes in.

34% of survey respondents say they are confused about what Easter egg packaging can be recycled.

However, the research found people in Britian want to behave more sustainably at Easter. 22% said they choose their egg based on the packaging being fully recyclable, while 26% said they are left feeling annoyed by the waste accumulated.

Of those who don’t normally recycle any of the packaging, 26% say this is because the recycling instructions on the label are unclear and 36% claim they can’t recycle a particular material in their area.

Commenting on the research, Samantha Upham, Senior Sustainability Manager at DS Smith, said: “Chocolate eggs are a lovely part of Easter, with 165 of these treats consumed over the average Brit’s lifetime.

“Decades of progress has had a huge impact on the amount we recycle, with paper and card the most widely recycled materials in the UK. But too much of it is still ending up in landfill and we need to challenge ourselves to do better.

“Simply separating card, plastic and foil after your Easter feast means materials have the best chance of being recycled rather than being sent to landfill. If you’re not certain what goes into which bin, check out your local recycling rules.”

Perhaps unsurprisingly, 38% of people surveyed said Easter is one of their favourite holidays purely because of the chocolate.

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Liz Parkes MBE appointed as CIWM Junior Vice President

Liz Parkes

CIWM (Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) has announced the election of Liz Parkes MBE as Junior Vice President.

Parkes will formally take over the role from Vicki Hughes, who will become Senior Vice President, at the CIWM presidential inauguration event, to be held at the House of Commons in June 2025.

Parkes is the Deputy Director of Climate Change, Chemicals and Markets at the Environment Agency.

With an extensive background in environmental management, CIWM says she has played a “pivotal role” in working with government to shape future regulatory interventions.

Liz Parkes called the appointment a “great honour”.

Parkes has been a trustee of CIWM since 2021 and was previously on the board of CIWM Enterprises. She was appointed by her fellow trustees as Chair of the General Council in July 2022.

Earlier that year, Parkes was awarded an MBE for her services to climate change and environmental protection.

Reacting to her appointment, Liz Parkes said: “It’s a great honour to have been elected to this role by CIWM’s Members’ Council, and I look forward to furthering my relationship with CIWM as part of the presidential team.

“On my journey to the presidency, I am excited to continue championing the institution’s vital work in moving to a world beyond waste.

“I am also fully committed to enabling our Early Careers presidential cohort in realising their full potential and inspiring our leaders of the future.”

CIWM’s Director of Policy, Communications, and External Affairs, Dan Cooke, commented: “Liz has been a great supporter of CIWM at board level for almost 10 years, knows our sector well, and works tirelessly to address the challenges presented by global climate change and resource security.

“On behalf of our members, we look forward to welcoming Liz to the role of Junior Vice President.”

CIWM is a professional membership organisation in the resource and waste management sector and currently represents and supports over 8,000 individuals and 250 Affiliated Organisations across the UK and overseas.

The presidential team and trustees are at the core of the organisation’s governance structure, which aims to ensure it focuses on member services and pursues its objective of creating a world beyond waste.

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Why harnessing net zero means finding a common language

Net zero

Sam Reeve, CEO at Resource Futures, explains the importance of how the resource and wastes sector communicates its role in the net zero transition.

The resources and waste sector is facing a pivotal moment. Whilst decarbonisation is driving major changes within the sector, it is also driving other sectors to engage more with resources and waste as they seek to bridge the gap to net zero.

As solutions for energy, transport, and estates become widely adopted, the next phase of decarbonisation will focus attention on food and material resources.

Our sector’s expertise will be essential to delivering this transition, but only if we can communicate the value we can offer effectively.

What is the opportunity?

The net-zero landscape is undergoing rapid evolution. Game-changing progress is being made in key areas, such as energy and transport, but these still leave a considerable gap to reach net zero – particularly for Scope 3 emissions.

Organisations recognise this and are introducing increasingly stringent procurement requirements. For example, large UK Government contracts require suppliers to report progress and environmental management methods against mandatory net zero commitments, and some areas of the NHS have been pushing these further still.

The Community RePaint take-back scheme has been operating for over 30 years.

With carbon reduction targets for 2030 on the horizon, supply chains are looking for the next opportunities for innovation, investment and green growth.

Right now, the net zero sector is growing three times faster than the UK economy. Our industry can harness this growth and support transformations on a comparable scale to those seen in the energy and transport sectors.

There’s a broader opportunity to provide new circular economy solutions, and the immediate need to support decarbonisation sectors to better manage their waste and resources, starting with wind turbines, solar panels, electric vehicles, and batteries.

With increasing pressure to reduce waste exports, the UK industry is in a prime position to lead this change.

This opportunity is not a given, however. Our sector risks being sidelined from these emerging solutions if we fail to articulate our role in a way that resonates across sectors.

The challenge is significant: waste is often overlooked as a key contributor to emissions, yet ‘purchased goods and services’ – a major carbon footprint hotspot and notoriously difficult to decarbonise – require circular economy solutions to achieve net zero.

This reflects a long-standing issue: waste is too often treated as an afterthought, with solutions implemented at the end-of-pipe rather than higher up the waste hierarchy, and a real lack of supply chain coordination to adopt wider reaching solutions.

This is frustrating, as the resources and waste sector really should be at the forefront of future developments.

The Recofloor scheme in action.

We bring incredible experience on how to deliver regenerative action through recirculating material through the economy to retain value in resources.

For example, the Community RePaint take-back scheme, operating for over 30 years, and the Recofloor scheme for vinyl flooring demonstrate how this sector can work with manufacturers to capture and reuse valuable resources, reducing waste and emissions.

We already know the barriers to remove, the policies and the financial measures needed to deliver circularity and net zero.

With the UK Government setting its sights on extended producer responsibility (EPR) for new material streams, our industry should be leading the response with a raft of timely, highly applicable circular solutions.

Reframing the narrative by speaking a common language

Net zero

While net zero has widespread understanding and support across sectors, the term ‘circular economy’ often lacks recognition and understanding outside of certain ‘circles’ (pun intended).

We need to communicate effectively with our partners, framing our work through their perspectives.

Tools such as Life Cycle Assessments and carbon modelling span both worlds and can be used to identify the best solutions and support a compelling business case for taking circular action.

Presenting hard numbers resonates with key decision-makers – investors, C-suite executives, Boards, and Financial Directors – for whom net zero is a core Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criterion.

We should also support widespread training on how circularity achieves these results. Together, the Carbon Literacy Project and circular economy training in chemical engineering and other sectors are helping establish a common language.

The French Government provides an ambitious benchmark, aiming to roll out training on ecological transition for a sustainable economy to 5.6 million public officials by 2027.

Our solutions can reach further still. Supporting a just transition is not only essential to our global supply chains but also a priority for how packaging EPR and other policies are implemented across the UK.

Creating quality jobs, supporting local economic development, ensuring material and supply chain security, and improving air and water quality are fundamental priorities for businesses, governments and local communities.

Circularity can deliver on all these fronts and support agendas on green growth, nature and biodiversity. Let’s flip the script and lead with these topics to bring circular solutions to a wider audience and ensure joined-up strategic decisions are being taken.

Conclusion: Leading the way to a circular future

The resources and waste sector is entering a new era. To harness the next wave of net zero we must connect with a much wider audience and demonstrate how connected solutions deliver against multiple agendas.

By doing so, we can bring circularity to the masses deliver regenerative change and secure a world fit for future generations.

The post Why harnessing net zero means finding a common language appeared first on Circular Online.

How to tackle energy inefficiency through circular renovations

RE-SKIN

Fabrizio Leonforte, Associate Professor at Politecnico di Milano, explains how RE-SKIN is using circular renovations to improve energy efficiency in the built environment.

Our buildings need a serious upgrade to keep up with our changing planet. Winters are colder, summers are hotter, and outdated housing just can’t keep up.

The future of sustainable living demands smarter designs, cutting-edge materials, and game-changing technologies to make buildings more energy-efficient, comfortable, and resilient.

But what if the solution to this pressing problem lies not in the new, but in the sustainable renovation of existing buildings?

What is at stake?

With climate change driving increasingly extreme temperatures, energy poverty is becoming a year-round crisis.

In the EU, over 41 million citizens, 9.3% of the population, couldn’t keep their homes warm during the winter months and over double this (19%) were unable to cool their homes during heatwaves.

Fabrizio Leonforte, Associate Professor at Politecnico di Milano.

This is only set to worsen as our planet’s temperatures soar further. By 2100, up to 100 million Europeans will be exposed to extreme heat, a tenfold increase from today. Our cities and homes are simply not built to withstand this reality.

Moreover, it should be taken into account that buildings account for a staggering 40% of energy consumption in the EU, with heating and cooling making up 80% of that figure.

Poor insulation and outdated heating systems place a heavy financial burden on households, alongside the rising cost of energy.

At the same time, the building sector is responsible for 35% of Europe’s energy-related emissions. Without intervention, these numbers will only rise.

To align with the European Green Deal, these emissions must be reduced by at least 60% compared to 2015, within the next six years.

The key to reducing these energy-related emissions is investing in sustainable renovation that makes buildings more energy-efficient.

How RE-SKIN is driving circular renovation

RE-SKIN

One EU-funded project paving the way is RE-SKIN. From public housing in France and Spain to a Bulgarian school and a community-focused building in Italy, this project takes a holistic approach to renovation that integrates circularity with energy efficiency, fundamentally improving the lives of residents while cutting carbon emissions.

It is more than a technical upgrade; it is a social revolution aimed at making housing both affordable and sustainable.

The secret lies in renovating rather than rebuilding – using what we already have rather than starting from scratch – as it’s important to keep materials in use for as long as possible to reduce their impact on the planet.

RE-SKIN aims to cut energy consumption in existing buildings by up to 90% through an innovative, multifunctional retrofit system.

By integrating bio-based insulation materials, renovations can be carried out externally, allowing tenants to remain in their homes while improvements are made, making the process both efficient and socially inclusive.

Furthermore, the use of recyclable and dry construction materials cuts carbon output by 60% during the retrofitting phase and by 40% at the end of a building’s lifecycle.

The system is fully compatible with existing buildings without overloading structures and interfaces with the original installations.

It allows for low intrusive installation works, which decreases installation times and speeds up the overall renovation processes whilst reducing or avoiding discomfort for the inhabitants.

Inside a RE-SKIN renovation

RE-SKIN diagram.

Instead of simply replacing old windows with new ones, RE-SKIN is taking a smarter, circular approach.

Existing windows will be upgraded with advanced coatings able to reduce the energy losses and to avoid the overheating – increasing the performances while saving labour and material cost.

By using recycled and bio-based materials, it is possible to cut energy consumption by 70% over the product’s lifecycle in comparison to standard materials.

Roofing is another crucial element of the retrofit process. RE-SKIN’s innovative building-integrated photovoltaic thermal (BIPVT) system builds on previous research to create roofs that not only withstand extreme weather but also generate electric and thermal energy.

By adapting curtain wall technology for rooftops, this system ensures better durability against heavy rain and strong winds.

Each roof is both resilient and environmentally responsible. The renovated buildings will have roofs made from recycled aluminium, bio-sourced insulation, and repurposed photovoltaic (PV) modules.

RE-SKIN
RE-SKIN project in Italy.

For areas not covered by solar panels, sustainable steel and bio-sourced insulation will be used, ensuring that every part of the building contributes to a lower carbon footprint.

The materials selected prioritise longevity, recyclability, and energy efficiency, proving that circularity can be seamlessly integrated into building upgrades.

Another key innovation is the use of repurposed electric vehicle (EV) batteries for energy storage. These discarded batteries, which are still functional and efficient, provide a cost-effective alternative to new storage systems.

By integrating batteries from the automotive sector, the solution reduces the environmental impact of battery production by up to 90%, significantly lowering costs over the system’s lifespan.

The evidence is clear. For a just transition, we cannot rely solely on the reduction of emissions in the operational phase, but we have to also consider the related embodied emissions throughout the whole life cycle.

Large-scale renovation projects prioritising circular materials and energy efficiency must become the norm.

The RE-SKIN project is proving that sustainable, affordable housing is not an unattainable dream but a practical, scalable solution.

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Circular economy in action: Paving the path to sustainability

Circular economy in action

The circular economy is no longer a theory, there are many examples of how it is changing the world right now. Below are six fascinating examples of the circular economy in action.

The concept of a circular economy has rapidly moved from the margins to the mainstream, becoming essential to addressing global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion.

As Europe and the UK position themselves at the forefront of this transformation, practical examples are emerging across various sectors, demonstrating significant environmental and economic benefits.

In March 2020, the European Commission adopted the Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP), an integral component of the European Green Deal. This ambitious plan targets the entire lifecycle of products – from design and manufacturing to consumption and disposal.

The CEAP aims to establish sustainable product norms, empower consumers, minimise waste, and ensure resource retention within the EU economy. Key sectors, such as electronics, textiles, plastics, construction, and vehicles, are specifically targeted due to their high potential for circular innovation.

The EU’s transition to a circular economy is foundational for achieving its 2050 climate neutrality goal and addressing biodiversity loss. By encouraging resource efficiency, reuse, recycling, and sustainable practices, the EU hopes to set a global example and position itself as a leader in circular economy practices.

Parallel to EU initiatives, the UK has made significant commitments toward fostering a circular economy. Environment Secretary Steve Reed recently highlighted the importance of transitioning away from Britain’s traditional “throwaway” culture.

Speaking at a recent industry gathering, Reed emphasised that adopting circular economy practices is essential to spur innovation, strengthen supply chains, and reduce environmental impact.

The UK Government has established the Circular Economy Taskforce to identify strategies within five key sectors: textiles, transport, construction, agri-food, and plastics. By creating tailored roadmaps for each sector, the taskforce aims to facilitate sustainable growth and net-zero emissions.

So, how has this policy landscape helped develop the circular economy around the globe? Check out these six fascinating examples of the circular economy in action below.

Built Environment – Copenhagen’s Green-Blue Infrastructure

Copenhagen

In July 2011, Copenhagen faced an unprecedented climate crisis – a catastrophic flood that inflicted around €1 billion in damages.

This event catalysed an ambitious climate adaptation strategy emphasising nature-based solutions. Copenhagen’s response has revolutionised urban water management through green-blue infrastructure, significantly reducing flood risk while simultaneously enhancing urban liveability.

Copenhagen implemented an extensive network of parks, wetlands, and permeable surfaces to manage stormwater naturally, easing pressure on traditional sewage infrastructure.

These interventions created new habitats, boosted biodiversity, improved air quality, and enhanced the city’s aesthetic appeal. Analysis demonstrated that such nature-based solutions reduced mitigation costs by over $200 million compared to traditional infrastructure.

This approach fostered cross-sector collaboration, uniting municipalities, utilities, and citizens. Inspired by Copenhagen, cities worldwide, including New York City, are adopting similar green infrastructure strategies, recognising the dual benefits of climate resilience and improved urban environments.

Automotive – Riversimple’s Hydrogen-powered Rasa

UK-based Riversimple exemplifies circular economy principles in the automotive industry. Established in 2007, Riversimple confronts traditional auto industry wastefulness through radical innovation in technology and business models.

Its hydrogen-powered car, Rasa, embodies a zero-emission vision, achieving minimal environmental impact and drastically reduced resource usage.

Riversimple’s business model is distinctive – vehicles are leased, not sold, and customers pay based on mileage. This approach incentivises the creation of durable, long-lasting vehicles designed for continual reuse.

The car itself incorporates lightweight carbon-fibre components, regenerative braking, and a small hydrogen fuel cell, drastically reducing energy consumption.

Additionally, Riversimple’s governance structure uniquely aligned interests among stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and the environment. Decisions require unanimous stakeholder approval, promoting sustainability and efficiency.

This holistic approach has positioned Riversimple as a pioneer in sustainable mobility, offering a replicable template for the automotive industry’s circular transformation.

Fashion and Textiles – Teemill’s Circular Supply Chain

Circular economy in action

The fashion industry’s reputation for wastefulness and environmental harm is undergoing a profound transformation through circular economy initiatives like Teemill, established in 2009 on the Isle of Wight.

Teemill’s revolutionary circular supply chain creates t-shirts on demand, minimising waste and resource usage at every production stage.

From organic cotton farming using rainwater irrigation and chemical-free pest control to efficient production processes powered by renewable energy, Teemill’s model prioritises environmental sustainability.

The brand’s real-time manufacturing strategy eliminates surplus inventory and waste by only producing items after purchase.

Teemill’s innovation extends to product lifecycle management, with garments designed to be returned for recycling into new apparel.

Customers participate actively by scanning QR codes to facilitate garment return, receiving credit for future purchases, effectively turning consumers into contributors to sustainability.

Teemill’s approach democratises access to sustainable practices, providing open access to its circular supply chain technology, enabling thousands of brands to adopt similar strategies without upfront costs.

City of Phoenix and Arizona State University – Collaboration Towards a Circular Economy

Arizona

Since 2011, the City of Phoenix and Arizona State University (ASU) have partnered to accelerate the city’s transition to a circular economy.

The collaboration, initially driven by applied research and later evolving into implementation-focused pilot projects, has played a pivotal role in doubling Phoenix’s waste diversion rate in six years.

Mayor Greg Stanton’s 2015 launch of “Reimagine Phoenix: Transforming Trash into Resources” set a goal of 40% waste diversion by 2020. To support this, the city formalised its partnership with ASU’s Rob and Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service. ASU also introduced the Resource Innovation and Solutions Network (RISN) to connect stakeholders and remove barriers to circular economy solutions.

ASU’s Circular Living Lab (CLL) emerged to test small-scale plastic recycling and remanufacturing across ASU’s 500-building campus. This interdisciplinary lab pilots grassroots models to convert plastic waste into new products – lessons from which are now being scaled up.

By 2020, Phoenix achieved a 38% waste diversion rate. The partnership fostered business development, job creation, and enhanced community engagement. RISN also launched an incubator in 2016, supporting 19 circular startups that generated USD 4.14 million in revenue, created 68 jobs, and filed 14 patents.

Challenges included bureaucratic hurdles, limitations on seed funding, and unreliable feedstock data, prompting more data-driven planning and broader cross-jurisdictional collaboration. A dedicated project manager at both the City and ASU helped the partnership remain agile and aligned.

Circular by Design – Signify’s Lighting-as-a-Service

Lighting

Signify, formerly Philips Lighting, exemplifies circular design through its innovative Lighting-as-a-Service (LaaS) model. Rather than selling lighting products, Signify offers managed lighting services to commercial and public-sector customers who pay monthly for usage, not ownership.

This model incentivises Signify to design durable, modular lighting fixtures that are easy to maintain, repair, and eventually recycle. By maintaining ownership, Signify ensures materials remain in use longer, significantly reducing waste.

Signify’s lighting systems incorporate IoT and AI technologies, optimising efficiency and energy usage, leading to substantial savings. Notably, Schiphol Airport achieved a 50% reduction in energy consumption under the LaaS model.

The LaaS model eliminates upfront costs for customers, promoting broader adoption. This innovative business approach conserves resources, reduces environmental impact, and exemplifies how circular economy principles can be seamlessly integrated into established industries.

Incentivising Reuse – Mud Jeans’s Plan to Close the Loop on Denim

MUD Jeans are another strong example of the textile circular economy in action. Their business model is built around durability, reuse, and recycling, with a unique leasing system that encourages customers to return old jeans rather than discard them.

These returned jeans are then either resold as vintage or broken down and used to create new denim products, reducing the need for virgin materials.

By designing for longevity and closing the loop on production and consumption, MUD Jeans demonstrates how fashion can shift toward a more sustainable, circular future. Mud Jeans founder Bert Van Son will be speaking at this year’s Festival of Circular Economy.

From Vision to Reality

Circular economy

Europe and the UK are setting precedents that inspire global change, proving that sustainability and economic growth can coexist harmoniously.

The transition to a circular economy is more than an environmental imperative – it represents a strategic economic opportunity, enabling industries to innovate sustainably, create new jobs, and drive meaningful progress toward global climate goals.

To better understand how these strategies are being put into action – and to learn from innovators like the above are shaping the future of sustainability – the Festival of Circular Economy offers a vital opportunity.

This three-day event combines virtual sessions with an in-person gathering, facilitating a dynamic exchange of ideas and fostering collaborations aimed at accelerating the transition to a sustainable, net-zero future.

Day 1: Online – May 20: The inaugural day focuses on “Unleashing the Power of Design for Circularity.” Sessions will delve into how innovative design principles can drive circular economy initiatives, emphasising the role of design in resource efficiency and sustainability.

Day 2: Online – May 21: The second day centres on “Circular Business Models and Innovation,” exploring transformative business strategies that prioritise sustainability, such as product-as-a-service models, reverse logistics, and closed-loop supply chains.

Day 3: In-Person – May 22: The final day transitions to an in-person format at Second Home Spitalfields, London. This day emphasises a UK-focussed day of networking and collaboration, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with speakers, participate in co-labs and idea-sharing sessions, and build partnerships.

The practical implementations set to feature at the Festival of Circular Economy will demonstrate tangible successes, highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of circular strategies as well as serving as powerful blueprints for future innovations.

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