Circular Economies

Course objective

This course explores the concept of the circular economy, a sustainable economic model designed to eliminate waste and promote the continuous use of resources.  You will gain in-depth knowledge of circular economy principles, strategies for implementation, processes and techniques and current innovation in the world.

Course content

1. Introduction to the Circular Economy – Defining the circular economy and its significance, Understanding the shift from linear to circular systems, Historical context and global adoption.
2. Principles and Fundamentals – Core principles of circular economy design (reduce, reuse, recycle), Circular economy systems thinking, Role of innovation and circular design principles.
3. Circular Business Models – Exploring various circular business models (e.g., product-as-a-service, sharing platforms), Case studies of successful circular businesses, Design thinking for circular innovation.
4. Resource Efficiency and Sustainable Production – Strategies for resource optimization and waste reduction, Sustainable supply chain management, Circular design and product life extension.
5. Waste Management and Recycling – Techniques for effective waste management, Circular recycling processes and technologies, Circular packaging and material innovation.
6. Reverse Logistics and End-of-Life Products – Managing end-of-life products/ materials, Strategies for product take-back and repurposing, Role of reverse logistics in circular systems.
7. Circular Economy Metrics and Measurement – Key performance indicators (KPIs) for circularity, Sustainability reporting and circularity benchmarks, Life cycle assessment (LCA) in circular economy analysis.