What is Circular Economy Month?
Circular Economy Month is organized each October by the Circular Innovation Council, a Canadian non-profit dedicated to advancing circular practices nationwide. Its goal is to encourage people to rethink the traditional “linear economy” — take, make, dispose — and instead embrace a model built on reuse, repair, refurbish, and recycle.
Throughout the month, organizations, schools, businesses, and municipalities across Canada take part in awareness campaigns, events, and initiatives that showcase how a circular economy creates less waste, saves resources, and supports a healthier planet.
TL;DR
October is Circular Economy Month in Canada — a nationwide campaign that highlights how individuals and businesses can reduce waste, extend product lifecycles, and rethink how we consume. The timing is intentional, right before the holiday shopping rush. By shopping for refurbished and open-box appliances at Econoplus, you support sustainability, save up to 50%, and keep thousands of appliances out of landfills. With multiple stores across Quebec, the east coast, and an online shop, Econoplus makes it easy for Canadians to make eco-friendly choices without sacrificing quality or budget.
Why is it celebrated in October?
October isn’t chosen at random. It’s a strategic moment:
- Pre-holiday season: With Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday shopping around the corner, October is when consumption spikes. It’s the best time to remind Canadians that buying smarter — not just more — can make a real difference.
- Season of renewal: Fall naturally prompts people to declutter and reset before winter. Circular Economy Month encourages Canadians to rethink what they throw away and what they buy.
- National and global momentum: October aligns with international sustainability campaigns, allowing Canada to connect local action with global climate goals.
By focusing on October, the campaign maximizes visibility and encourages sustainable shopping decisions before the busiest retail months of the year.
The Problem with Appliances and Waste
Appliances like refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers are among the most resource-intensive products in our homes. Manufacturing new units requires mining raw materials, consuming energy, and producing greenhouse gas emissions.
- In Canada, electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams, and large appliances contribute significantly.
- A single refrigerator can contain over 50 kg of steel, 20 kg of plastics, and several kilos of refrigerants and insulation materials.
- According to recycling data, refurbishing one appliance instead of producing new can save hundreds of kilos of CO₂ emissions.
- When appliances are discarded prematurely — often due to minor defects or cosmetic scratches — it’s not only costly for consumers but harmful to the planet.
Econoplus: A Circular Business Model in Action
Since 2012, Econoplus has built its mission around extending the lifecycle of appliances. With multiple stores across Quebec, the east coast, and a growing online presence, Econoplus has become a leader in refurbished and open-box appliances.
The company saves over 115,000 appliances per year from landfills, working with Go Recycles / GoRéemploi to responsibly collect and process old units. By doing so, Econoplus embodies the principles of the circular economy every day.
Econoplus’ contributions to circular economy:
- Reuse: Salvaging functional parts from older appliances to repair and rebuild others.
- Repair: Employing trained technicians who test, repair, and certify appliances to meet quality standards.
- Extend: Offering refurbished appliances with a 3 month warranty
- Accessible sustainability: Making eco-friendly choices affordable with prices up to 50% lower than new retail.
Refurbished Fridges, Stoves, and More: Smart Choices for Every Home
When people think of upgrading their kitchen or laundry room, the first instinct is often to shop for brand-new appliances. But choosing refurbished fridges for sale or a used fridge and stove for sale can deliver the same performance at a fraction of the cost. At Econoplus, every refurbished unit undergoes a detailed inspection and repair process, ensuring it meets strict quality standards before being resold.
For families looking to reduce expenses, a refurbished stove or an open-box refrigerator is a practical solution that balances value and sustainability. These appliances often come from overstock, display models, or units with minor cosmetic blemishes — meaning you get nearly new performance at up to 50% off retail.
Shopping for a cheap appliance near me no longer means compromising on quality. Econoplus operates as an appliance outlet with locations across Quebec, making it simple for customers to find affordable, reliable options close to home. Whether you’re equipping a first apartment, upgrading a rental unit, or replacing a single appliance, refurbished and open-box products help stretch your budget while reducing waste.
The variety is another advantage. From large-capacity refrigerators to energy-efficient washers and dryers, Econoplus offers solutions for every household. Many customers are surprised to find premium brands — Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire — available as reconditioned or open-box, complete with a 3 month to 1-year warranty.
By choosing refurbished, you don’t just get a deal. You actively support the circular economy, reduce landfill waste, and extend the useful life of high-quality appliances. It’s a smart move for your wallet, your home, and the planet.
Why Refurbished and Open-Box Appliances Make Sense
1. Environmental Impact
Buying a refurbished appliance prevents a functional product from becoming landfill waste. It also reduces demand for manufacturing new products, cutting emissions and conserving resources.
2. Big Savings
Econoplus customers save up to 50% compared to buying new. For example, a stove or washer-dryer set can cost hundreds less, without compromising performance.
3. Peace of Mind
All refurbished and open-box appliances at Econoplus come with a 3-month warranty (parts & labor) — the same reassurance you’d expect from a new purchase.
4. Flexible Options
Econoplus offers 0% financing and free layaway, making it easy for families to manage their budgets.
5. Trusted Brands
Econoplus carries top names like Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Maytag, Frigidaire, GE, and Amana — brands known for durability and innovation.
Practical Ways to Support the Circular Economy at Home
Shopping at Econoplus is one powerful step, but there are many everyday actions you can take:
- Maintain appliances — Clean filters, check seals, and schedule minor repairs to extend lifespan.
- Repair before replacing — Many appliance issues are fixable at a fraction of the cost of new.
- Choose refurbished or open-box — Opt for reconditioned units rather than new whenever possible.
- Recycle responsibly — Use certified programs to dispose of old appliances. When buying an appliance from Econoplus, upon delivery, we will safely remove your old appliances.
- Buy what you need — Avoid impulse buys during sales events; plan purchases for the long-term.
- Support local retailers — Shopping at Econoplus reduces shipping emissions compared to ordering from overseas suppliers.
- Spread awareness — Share your positive refurbished experience with friends and family.
Why October is the right time to choose refurbished
As the year’s busiest shopping season approaches, consumers face countless deals and promotions on new products. Circular Economy Month reminds us that not every deal is a good deal — especially if it fuels waste.
By choosing Econoplus in October, you’re:
- Saving money ahead of the holidays.
- Supporting Canadian jobs and local businesses.
- Taking part in a nationwide sustainability movement.
- Setting an example for friends, family, and neighbors.
The Future of Circular Shopping
Consumer habits are changing. More Canadians are aware of the environmental and financial benefits of refurbished products. At the same time, businesses like Econoplus are proving that sustainability and affordability can go hand-in-hand.
Looking ahead, the circular economy will continue to expand across industries — from clothing and furniture to electronics and appliances. By embracing these choices now, consumers help accelerate the transition to a greener, more resilient future.
Purchase with Purpose
Circular Economy Month isn’t just a campaign — it’s a call to action. By shopping for refurbished and open-box appliances at Econoplus, you’re not just saving money. You’re extending product lifecycles, reducing waste, supporting local jobs, and making an environmentally responsible choice.
This October, make your next appliance purchase matter. Visit one of Econoplus’ multiple stores across Quebec, the east coast, or shop online to find the perfect refurbished appliance for your home and your budget.
