Ellen MacArthur Foundation
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that works to accelerate the transition to a circular economy. A circular economy is an economic system that is designed to eliminate waste and pollution, circulate products and materials at their highest value, and regenerate nature. The Foundation believes that a circular economy can deliver better outcomes for people and the environment, and help address global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss.
The Foundation was established in 2010 by Dame Ellen MacArthur, a former professional sailor who broke the world record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of the globe. After retiring from sailing, she dedicated herself to creating a more sustainable future for the planet. She launched the Foundation with the aim of inspiring and influencing decision-makers across business, government, and academia to adopt circular economy principles and practices.
The Foundation has three main areas of focus: developing and promoting the idea of a circular economy, engaging key actors to mobilise systems solutions at scale, and creating formal learning opportunities and resources for individuals and organisations. The Foundation produces original research, case studies, publications, and tools that demonstrate the benefits and potential of a circular economy. It also hosts events, podcasts, webinars, and awards to showcase circular economy innovations and best practices.
The Foundation has a global network of partners, members, affiliates, and collaborators that include industry-leading corporations, emerging innovators, international institutions, governments, cities, universities, non-governmental organisations, and others. The Foundation works with them to build circular economy capacity, address common barriers to progress, understand the necessary enabling conditions, and pilot circular economy solutions in various sectors and contexts.
The Foundation is registered as a charity in the UK and is also a member of the World Economic Forum, which is another not-for-profit foundation based in Switzerland. The Foundation has a number of policies that govern its operations, such as data protection, privacy, and anti-bribery.
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is a visionary organisation that is committed to creating a more prosperous, resilient, and regenerative world through the circular economy.
