What does "circular economy" mean in the context of landscape architecture?

In the context of landscape architecture, the phrase "circular economy" refers to an approach that emphasizes resource efficiency and waste reduction in design and materials use. This concept is fundamentally about rethinking how resources are utilized throughout a project’s lifecycle. Instead of following a linear model where resources are extracted, used, and then discarded, a circular economy promotes systems where waste is minimized, and materials are reused, recycled, or repurposed.

This method aligns closely with sustainability principles, as it seeks to create closed-loop systems that keep materials in use for as long as possible, thereby reducing overall ecological footprints. In landscape architecture, this can manifest in the selection of sustainable materials, the redesign of existing landscapes to improve functionality without additional resource consumption, and practices that enhance the natural environment while providing aesthetic benefits.

In contrast, the other options represent approaches that diverge from the ideals of a circular economy. For instance, focusing on linear resource consumption and waste generation ignores the principles of sustainability, while maximizing profit without ecological considerations undermines the fundamental goal of creating a balance between human needs and environmental health. Lastly, disregarding sustainability in landscape practices contradicts the very essence of what a circular economy aims to achieve, which is ensuring that landscape design contributes positively to both