Member Spotlight: Circular Partners

Maintaining a Sustainable Business in Sustainability: A 10-Year Success Story

This October, Circular Partners celebrated a decade of providing environmental services to industry, business and government sectors along with the community. They have successfully diverted over 17 million pounds of excess materials from Canadian landfills – equating to over 60 million pounds of CO2e. Their innovative approach has not only offered sustainable solutions to over 600 loyal customers, but has also fostered a market for reused and recycled materials, reshaping how businesses manage their excess materials.

Three people moving cut carpet into a shipping container
Circular Partners loading carpet bin.

President Kelly McCaig emphasizes the many challenges the company has faced: “We are very fortunate to be where we are, but it has never been easy.  Our industry has developed over the past decade, and with that, we have had to constantly adapt and evolve. Not long ago, there was only the landfill as an option to manage excess materials. We have been able to provide an alternate, more sustainable solution, which over time has been adopted by more and more decision makers. There is a recognized value in the services we provide, including the environmental reporting these companies require.”

Originally named Viking Recycling, the company rebranded to Circular Partners to better reflect their broader range of services. “Circular Partners encompasses more of the Hierarchy of Sustainability that we follow,” says McCaig. The company has adhered to a strict Zero Landfill policy since its inception. Initiatives like the SampleLibrary and the REUSE Marketplace support this incredible feat. “Although the reuse community for some of these types of materials is still not completely established, it is strengthening. As leaders, we see how providing alternative options can help to change behaviour, develop a business and support the community.”

The REUSE Marketplace featuring carpets and other colourful fabrics.
  The REUSE Marketplace located at 500 Keele Street.

Circular Partners currently employs 12 dedicated staff. The team and business has grown in each year of their existence, with very low employee turn-over. “I’ve always believed at the core of a business is the people. Maintaining a strong and experienced team requires a lot of attention and listening to the needs of your employees.” Over the years, the company has introduced many employee-focused ideas and initiatives, such as, a profit sharing plan, a health benefits plan, and unlimited vacation days.

McCaig attributes their success in a challenging industry to ethical business practices and transparency. Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its REUSE Marketplace to provide ‘Low Cost – Low Carbon’ materials, and collaborate on a Material Innovation Centre in partnership with government and post-secondary institutions. McCaig noted, “We are working in the future, and we are hoping to bring everyone along with us.”

A group shot of 10 people from circular partners against a graffiti art wall
The Circular Partners team.

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