2024 Forrester Report: The Circular Economy & Sustainable Manufacturing

With global demand for critical resources projected to double between 2025 and 2030, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to rethink how they source, design, and produce their goods. In an era of finite resources and rising material costs, the global manufacturing industry  must decide between continuing with the traditional ‘take, make, dispose’ model or shifting toward a more sustainable and profitable circular economy. 

While just 20% of business and tech professionals at production and manufacturing firms actively report engaging in a circular economy, many other sustainability initiatives already align with circularity. For example:

• 38% of firms have adopted delivery and fulfillment options that reduce waste and carbon footprints 
• 32% are improving waste, e-waste, and hazardous materials management 
• 28% are focusing on more efficient material sourcing 

A circular economy offers manufacturers the opportunity to reduce their reliance on virgin raw materials, extend product lifecycles, and reduce waste while staying competitive in a fast-changing market. By embracing these greener strategies, companies can not only reduce environmental impact but also unlock new revenue streams and drive operational efficiencies. 

You can download this report by Forrester Research today to learn more about how manufacturers can implement circular strategies to thrive in the new landscape. Featuring real-world case studies and actionable insights, the report shows how circularity is already delivering helping to reduce waste, increase efficiency, and create long-term value.