2021 AIChE Virtual Spring Meeting and 17th Global Congress on Process Safety

(149c) Would You Throw Away a Dollar? the Future of Circular Economy in Manufacturing

Author

What is Circular Economy and why should you care as a chemical engineer? To explain circular economy, let’s follow the life cycle of two objects: a coffee cup and a dollar. A coffee cup is an example of “linear economy” in which the object is designed for a single use and to be thrown in the landfill. A dollar on the other hand is an example of circular economy because it is designed to be used over and over again and then, finally, when it is too worn, it can be shredded and repurposed. “Circularity” goes far beyond recycling: circular economy means prolonging the value of material items. Circular economy principles can be applied along the whole life cycle of an object: from design to manufacture to end of life. As chemical engineers we play a vital role in this process. In my talk I will discuss more specific ways which you can incorporate circular economy into your role. These simple mindset shifts can dramatically improve the sustainability of your product while also decreasing costs.