Fernando Ariel Arrieta, an Argentinian entrepreneur and regional director at GCERTI LATAM, is an influential voice in the world of international standards. Known for his extensive work as an auditor and expert in quality and process optimization, he also contributes as a writer to prestigious outlets like Infobae and Revistas Noticias. In a recent appearance on Mundo Empresa, a program aired on T5 Satelital, Arrieta shared his insights on the circular economy and how ISO standards can help companies and consumers drive sustainable growth.
Circular Economy: A Game-Changer in Modern Production
During his interview, Fernando Arrieta introduced the concept of the circular economy, emphasizing its crucial role in reshaping how organizations produce and manage waste. He explained that traditional production models often follow a linear path—extracting raw materials, manufacturing products, and disposing of waste. However, the circular economy aims to close the loop by reusing materials, reducing waste, and ultimately minimizing environmental harm.
“The circular economy allows organizations to look for opportunities to reuse materials, rather than following the linear model of producing and discarding,” Arrieta said. He pointed to global technology companies like Samsung and Apple, which have embraced circular practices by collecting old devices and reusing internal components in new products. “We reduce and mitigate the waste generated by humans from these devices,” he added, highlighting the impact of such initiatives on reducing electronic waste.
The Role of Consumers in Sustainability
Arrieta also stressed the importance of individual actions in promoting a sustainable circular economy. “Each person in their home, with the means they have, is already part of the circular economy or sustainability by separating waste,” he noted. Simple actions such as waste separation can streamline logistics processes and play a significant role in fostering a healthier planet, especially in light of population growth and increasing pollution levels.
By involving consumers in the circular economy, Arrieta emphasized that sustainability is not just the responsibility of businesses but a shared duty that can be carried out in everyday life. These small steps, when combined with corporate efforts, can have a far-reaching impact on reducing waste and conserving natural resources.
Circular Economy in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)
In his discussion, Arrieta touched on the challenges and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting circular economy principles. He suggested that SMEs should evaluate the entire lifecycle of their production processes, particularly focusing on the end point, where waste is typically generated.
“When we begin to be aware of what we do with waste, that’s when we start innovating,” Arrieta said, offering practical advice. He compared technology companies’ reuse of components with the potential for a furniture store to sell wood scraps, turning what might be considered waste into an additional revenue stream. “The trick of the circular economy is not only about caring for the environment but also finding added value from waste,” he explained, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.
National Programs Supporting Circular Economy Initiatives
Towards the end of the interview, Arrieta highlighted government programs in Argentina that encourage businesses to adopt circular economy practices. “Any project that is related to quality or sustainability receives State incentives for development,” he said, pointing out the numerous resources available to support companies in their transition to more sustainable business models.
Arrieta also mentioned the National Circular Economy Awards, which recognize and promote innovation in this field. These initiatives showcase the importance of sustainability in the national agenda and provide a platform for innovative projects that are leading the charge toward a greener future.
ISO Standards: A Key Driver of Global Sustainability
In addition to his work on circular economy concepts, Fernando Arrieta is a recognized expert in ISO standards, which help companies achieve consistent quality and sustainability goals. As the Regional Director of GCERTI LATAM, Arrieta plays a crucial role in guiding businesses toward compliance with globally recognized standards such as ISO 9001 for quality management, ISO 14001 for environmental management, and ISO 27001 for information security.
These certifications are vital for businesses aiming to compete on a global scale while ensuring they meet sustainability objectives. Arrieta’s leadership at GCERTI LATAM has been instrumental in certifying over 20,000 companies across 54 countries, reinforcing the importance of adhering to international norms in today’s competitive market.
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Writer
Beyond his corporate work, Fernando Arrieta is also an accomplished writer. He regularly contributes thought leadership pieces to notable publications such as Infobae and Revistas Noticias, where he shares his expertise on quality management, business excellence, and the practical implementation of international standards.
As an Argentinian entrepreneur, Arrieta’s career reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation. His thought-provoking articles and public appearances continue to inspire business leaders and consumers alike to embrace a more sustainable, circular economy that prioritizes both environmental health and economic success.
Conclusion
Fernando Ariel Arrieta’s contributions to the circular economy and ISO standards have made him a key figure in the global conversation on sustainability. His practical insights, coupled with his leadership at GCERTI LATAM and his thought leadership in various publications, position him as a leading advocate for sustainable business practices. Whether guiding companies through ISO certifications or promoting the circular economy on national platforms, Arrieta continues to lead the way toward a greener, more sustainable future for businesses and consumers alike.
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