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Why a Circular Economy matters - and how Devon Duvets is part of the solution

At Devon Duvets, sustainability isn’t just something we talk about or use as a ‘buzz’ word. It’s how we work - every single day.  We’re committed to ensuring that the key principles of the circular economy are at the foundation of everything we do, from how we source our wool to the way we use every last scrap of material. But what exactly is the circular economy, and why is it so important?

What is the circular economy?

The circular economy is a model that moves away from the traditional 'take, make, dispose' approach that has dominated industry for decades. Instead, it focuses on keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible, and minimising waste.

That means using materials that can be reused, repaired, repurposed, or naturally returned to the earth at the end of their life. It’s not just a theory but a practical and achievable way of thinking that many ethical and responsible businesses are embracing, - and that includes Devon Duvets.

How does Devon Duvets support the circular economy?

At Devon Duvets, we achieve a circular economy in several ways: 

  • We use 100% certified British wool, sourced through the British Wool traceability programme. This ensures that we support British farmers and local agriculture. Our wool is processed in traditional British mills without any chemical treatments. This not only protects the environment, but also preserves the wool's natural properties.
  • The fabric we use to encase our wool fillings is made from high-quality cotton fibres certified by Better Cotton, which promotes more sustainable and ethical cotton farming. This cotton is woven to our own specifications, ensuring both longevity and comfort.
  • Every Devon Duvets product is individually handcrafted, from start to finish, in our energy-efficient workshop in Devon. We don’t mass produce overseas or make on large scale equipment and merely ‘hand finish’.
  • We are committed to making quality products, this means that, with proper care, they last longer. We’re proud to be the only soft bedding company that has been awarded membership of the Guild of Master Craftsmen for the quality of our products and our commitment to sustainability. We’re also proud to be Highly Commended for our sustainability by Made in Britain.
  • We also operate a zero-waste policy. Any fabric offcuts are reused by other British companies for making products. Wool roll ends are fluffed and used in other Devon Duvets products, and wool scraps are composted. 
  • We inform our customers about the importance of our commitment to sustainability and how by purchasing our products they are supporting a circular economy. We even share advice on how to reuse or recycle our products when our customers feel the time has come to replace their much-loved Devon Duvets duvet, topper or pillow.
  • You can find out more details here.

What can other UK businesses do to join the circular economy?

There are practical steps that businesses across the UK can take:

  • Design for durability and repair, not to have a short lifespan and need constant replacing.
  • Use natural or recycled materials wherever possible.
  • Offer take-back or repair schemes for products.
  • Choose local manufacturing to reduce transport emissions.
  • Join ethical manufacturing groups like Made in Britain, which celebrates UK craftsmanship and responsible sourcing.
  • Made in Britain also provides support and a community for businesses that care about quality and sustainability.

How can consumers support the circular economy?

Supporting the circular economy isn’t complicated and here are a few simple examples: 

Buy better, not more: Choose quality products made to last.

Ask questions: If you're not sure where or how something is made, ask the seller.

Care for your products: Look after your belongings, from jumpers to duvets, so they last longer.

Compost or recycle: Natural materials can often return to the earth safely – our products break down harmlessly, releasing nutrients into the ground. Because we don’t use synthetic liners, glues or bonding agents, when the time comes to replace your Devon Duvets product, there are no nasty microplastics to leach out as it breaks down.

Support sustainable brands: Choose companies that are transparent and ethical in their practices.

Q&A: What people want to know about the circular economy

What is the circular economy in simple terms?

The circular economy is a sustainable model of production and consumption that focuses on reducing waste by keeping resources in use for as long as possible. Rather than throwing products away, it promotes repair, reuse, recycling, and regeneration. It aims to mimic the natural cycle, where nothing is wasted and everything has a purpose.

How does the circular economy benefit the environment?

By reducing the need to constantly extract raw materials, the circular economy helps conserve natural resources. It cuts down on landfill waste, reduces pollution, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with manufacturing and transportation. It also helps regenerate soil and ecosystems when natural fibres like wool are used and composted correctly.

How is Devon Duvets an example of a circular economy business?

Devon Duvets puts circular economy principles into practice every day. We use 100% British wool and Better Cotton in our handcrafted bedding. Our products are made in-house, not outsourced, which means we control every stage of production. We repurpose or compost every offcut and avoid chemicals in our materials. We create long-lasting bedding that can be cared for naturally.

Why is British manufacturing important in the circular economy?

British manufacturing supports the local economy, creates jobs, and reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance shipping. It also allows businesses to be more accountable and transparent about how their products are made. The Made in Britain mark helps consumers identify trustworthy companies that uphold ethical and environmental standards.

What can I do at home to support the circular economy?

There’s lots we can all do! It begins by making conscious choices: buy fewer, higher-quality items made from natural materials. Maintain and repair things instead of replacing them. Compost biodegradable items where possible and choose companies that are transparent about sustainability. Even small decisions – like storing your wool duvet properly in its original cotton bag – contribute to reducing waste and protecting the planet.

At Devon Duvets, we're proud to be part of a growing movement of businesses committed to a cleaner, greener future. By choosing natural, British-made bedding that respects both people and planet, you're already playing a part in the circular economy. 

Visit our website for more information about our products and sustainable practices.