MODULE 4 –
Circular Economy & Industrial Ecology
Estimated time: 4 hours | Format: Studio + Material Flow Mapping
Learning Objectives
- Distinguish reuse, repair, remanufacture, recycling, and regeneration.
- Map material flows and identify leakages/hotspots.
- Design circular strategies compatible with decarbonization.
Circular Strategies
- Design for Longevity: modularity, reparability, standardization.
- Product-as-a-Service: shift to performance contracts; incentives for durability.
- Industrial Symbiosis: by-product exchange (heat, water, materials) across plants.
- Advanced Recycling: mechanical vs chemical routes; quality losses vs energy costs.
Workshop Task
Choose one product (e.g., smartphone, washing machine, cement). Build a high-level bill of materials and trace end-of-life fates. Propose a 3-part circular plan (design, business model, infrastructure).
| Dimension | Questions | Evidence Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Longevity | MTBF? Repair score? Warranty length? | Failure modes, spare parts pricing |
| Material Health | Hazardous additives? Critical minerals? | Material safety sheets |
| Reverse Flows | Collection rate? Reverse logistics? | Take-back pilots, partner MOUs |