The smaller the loops are, the more of a product’s original embedded value can be retained after use. For example, reusing a product rather than recycling it is preferable since it generally requires a less costly and less energy and resource intensive process to achieve. Yet, every product will eventually reach the end of its functional life and should therefore always be designed with recycling in mind. This is why some refer to recycling as the ‘loop of last resort’.

The table below describes common circular design strategies that can contribute to a circular economy. From a circular perspective, the design strategies at the top of the table are preferable to those at the bottom since they generally cause less resource depletion and environmental impacts (such as greenhouse gas emissions).

 

Other strategies that are not visualised in the Butterfly diagram are: