Sustainability
Sustainable products have always been central to what we do. Since 2012, Ethical Stone has been at the forefront of sustainable design and production. We have consistently sourced our natural stone products from responsible, sustainable suppliers, prioritising local sources wherever possible to minimise transport distances and reduce carbon emissions.
We have applied this same ethos to our flagstone products. The majority of the materials used in our flagstones are sand and stone chippings, all of which are sourced from recycled materials. As a result, the flagstones we supply contain approximately 85% recycled content overall. Through this approach, we actively contribute to the circular economy while maintaining the quality and durability our products are known for.
What is the circular economy?
The circular economy is a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the life cycle of products is extended.
In practice, it implies reducing waste to a minimum. When a product reaches the end of its life, its materials are kept within the economy wherever possible thanks to recycling. These can be productively used again and again, thereby creating further value.
This is a departure from the traditional, linear economic model, which is based on a take-make-consume-throw away pattern. This model relies on large quantities of cheap, easily accessible materials and energy.
Also part of this model is planned obsolescence, when a product has been designed to have a limited lifespan to encourage consumers to buy it again.
Further reading about circular economy priniples:
https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview
