What the Earth Time-lapse tool allows us to see is the change happening to our system as a whole, and to understand the cascade of transformation that unfolds: it provides a pattern to think big picture, to use a “macroscope” as Joel de Rosnay would put it.

Why would it matter? Because making sense of stocks and flows is essential in order to foster effective use of resources, identify areas of brittleness, and rebuild capital where necessary.

Only a circular economy will lead to prosperity for all.

Note: Ellen MacArthur participated in the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos.