Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module you should be able to:
(1) Develop a holistic understanding of technical and biological cycles in the circular economy, and explain their roles in carbon reduction and resource efficiency.
(2) Evaluate circular economy strategies using quantitative tools and indicators (e.g. CTI, ISO 59020) to assess circularity performance across sectors.
(3) Integrate sustainability reporting frameworks (e.g. CSRD) into circular design and policy development, aligning bio-economy solutions with regulatory compliance.
(4) Identify and propose innovative circular solutions for resource efficiency, waste valorisation, and regenerative material flows within bio-based systems.
(5) Critically assess industry case studies to explore how circular bio-economy principles are implemented in real-world contexts and across different value chains.
Indicative Module Content:
1) Introduction to Circular Economy Models: Understanding the foundations of circular economy thinking and its relevance to sustainability and carbon reduction.
2) Technical Cycles in Practice: Exploring strategies such as reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling to extend material lifespans and reduce waste.
3) Biological Cycles and Regenerative Systems: Examining regenerative agriculture, composting, anaerobic digestion, and the use of bio-based materials.
4) Circularity Metrics and Indicators: Using tools such as Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) and ISO 59020 to quantitatively assess circular performance.
5) Bioeconomy Innovations and Valorisation Pathways: Investigating technologies and processes that convert biological waste into high-value products.
6) Corporate Circularity and Reporting Requirements: Understanding the integration of circular principles into corporate sustainability strategies and CSRD compliance.
7) Policy Frameworks and Governance for the Bioeconomy: Exploring national and EU-level policies supporting circular bioeconomy transitions.
8) Industry Case Studies: Analysing real-world examples across sectors (e.g., agri-food, packaging, energy) to understand circular bioeconomy applications.
9) Challenges and Trade-offs in Circular Design: Critically examining unintended consequences and limitations of implementing circular strategies.
10) Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Circular Bioeconomy: Exploring emerging business models and value chains based on circular and bio-based principles.
11) Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Systems Integration: Highlighting the importance of cross-sectoral approaches in implementing circular bioeconomy strategies.