Circular Economy

Circular Economy (Total 100 Credit Scores [CS])

The circular economy is a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the life cycle of products is extended. In practice, it implies reducing waste to a minimum. When a product reaches the end of its life, its materials are kept within the economy wherever possible thanks to recycling. These can be productively used again and again, thereby creating further value. This is a departure from the traditional, linear economic model, which is based on a take-make-consume-throw away pattern. This model relies on large quantities of cheap, easily accessible materials and energy.

A. Online Sessions (80 CS): Thematic Topics

• Basic economic concepts (Macro & Micro), design approach in economics
• Circularity and source-sink relationship, sustainability and economics of sustainability
• Principles and Pillars of Circular Economy, examples and explanations
• Circularity in lifestyle, SLE and responsible production and consumption (SDG 12).
• The Economics of Environment & Biodiversity [TEEB], Ecosystem services

B. Onsite Session (20 CS): Thematic Classroom Activities

• Practical classes on design approach and circularity – case studies review
• Dissertation work