Principles of Circular Economy

This course introduces the topic of circular economy (CE) by establishing a set of principles which explain, define, and articulate the distinctive vision and approach of CE and how it differentiates from the current ‘take-make-dispose’ economic and business model. It does this in part through comparing, contrasting, and distinguishing CE from other common analytical or conceptual frameworks. The course will then address the practical applications of CE to date, with case-studies both local and international and analyse the how and why of the progress observed has been realised. The topic will be examined from multiple perspectives including the technologies, materials, policies, behaviours, practices, and theories involved in creating a circular economy, and then linked to the issues of the climate crisis.