Creating a Stronger Community for All: Circular Economy Month with Kimberley Gutt of Ryse Solutions
October is Circular Economy Month, a time to recognize the people and organizations driving sustainable change across Canada. At Ryse Solutions, it’s more than a campaign; it’s a call to action. This year’s theme, “Creating a Stronger Community for All,” resonates deeply with Kimberley Gutt (pronounced “Goot”), our Sustainability & Recycling Partnerships Specialist, whose work is helping shape a more resilient and resource-conscious Ontario.
“In 2025, resilience and security are top of mind,” Kimberley shares. “With global and environmental challenges growing, there’s never been a greater need to extend the lifespan of the resources we already have, especially right here in Ontario.”
Kimberley’s work is all about connection, linking businesses to the recycling system and helping them understand how packaging choices impact both the environment and their bottom line. “When businesses understand design for circularity,” she explains, “they save money by reducing recycling fees and conserve resources. It’s a win-win.”
Ryse is actively improving Ontario’s recycling system, and Kimberley is passionate about the local impact. “Every piece of packaging has value that’s lost when it’s not recycled. That’s a wasted opportunity. Recycling reduces litter, protects our lakes, which already show signs of garbage patches, and helps sustain landfill capacity, especially in the GTA where it’s reaching critical levels. Waste creates local problems. Recycling creates local solutions.”
Driving change isn’t always easy. Kimberley often works with businesses that feel burdened by new regulations or hesitant to shift away from familiar packaging. “The biggest challenge is getting past resistance,” she says. “But once they understand the intention to improve recycling and conserve resources, they begin to see the opportunity. I help them get to a place of acceptance so we can have the real conversation about change.”
Her message to businesses and communities just starting their sustainability journey?
“The direct financial benefits are well documented. But it’s the indirect benefits, like customer satisfaction and loyalty, that are the most encouraging. When you lead sustainably and take accountability for your impact, people notice.”
Kimberley’s leadership and expertise are helping Ryse Solutions build a stronger, more circular Ontario, one partnership at a time.