雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of 'circular economy' has gained significant traction in recent years as a sustainable alternative to the traditional linear model of 'take-make-dispose'. Unlike linear systems, which prioritize production efficiency and often overlook waste management, circular economies aim to decouple economic growth from resource consumption by designing out waste, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. This paradigm shift requires not only technological innovation but also profound changes in consumer behavior and corporate responsibility. For instance, product-as-a-service models encourage manufacturers to retain ownership of goods, thereby incentivizing durability and repairability. However, critics argue that the transition is hindered by existing regulatory frameworks and market structures that favor short-term profits over long-term sustainability. Despite these challenges, proponents contend that circularity offers a viable path to mitigate environmental degradation while fostering economic resilience.