As the momentum towards building a Circular Economy grows worldwide, proponents search for examples that best illustrate what it would be like to live “Circularly.”

Author and designer Azby Brown uses illustrations from his ground-breaking book “Just Enough” to show how Japan paved the way centuries ago. The Circular Economy model adheres so closely to Edo-period environmental resource and design principles that Edo can serve as an essential prototype and inspiration, demonstrating that living in a highly-developed Circular Economy can be comfortable, healthy, and beautiful. Azby Brown has lived in Japan for over 3 decades, developing a multidisciplinary practice spanning environmentalism, design, and the fine arts. His groundbreaking writings on traditional Japanese carpentry, compact housing, and traditional sustainable practices are recognised internationally. Since the start of the Fukushima disaster in March, 2011, he has been lead researcher for the global citizen-science organisation Safecast; engaged in assisting affected communities and analysing and reporting the issues they face. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.