CRAFTING AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY :
A CASE STUDY OF THE MERRYMAKERS SCARECROW VILLAGE
By Professor Lisa Farrell , RMIT University
INTRODUCTION It is important that improved resource allocation models are explored and implemented . The circular economy is a model of production and consumption where valuable resources have a longer life and are used and reused . It offers scope to understand models of economies that operate according to values and not just profits . With careful regulation and appropriate incentives , new solutions are possible that add longevity to our current resource stocks . One very important societal value in the circular economy framework is sustainability . To be effective , this value needs to be embedded into activities at all levels of the economy . Here we present a case study of the Merrymakers Scarecrow Village which was a highly successful community based COVID-19 call to action , based on the value of sustainability through upcycling
and recycling . It is an important case study as it moves us beyond community based projects that require high levels of promotion and are costly to implement . for example , local festivals with major costs such as firework displays or live entertainment events that require extensive planning and management . Activities of this nature have a place but are resource intensive , so it is important that those responsible for economic and
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