Circular Economy Principles
About the course
Target group
Key words
Course introduction
The transition to a circular economy is essential for addressing global challenges such as resource depletion, climate change, and waste management. Unlike the traditional linear economy—based on a “take, make, dispose” model—the circular economy promotes sustainability by keeping materials and resources in use for as long as possible through reuse, recycling, and regeneration.
This course provides a structured approach to understanding circular economy principles, with a particular focus on their application in the agri-food sector, including wine, olive oil, and cereal production. Participants will explore key strategies and systemic solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and create economic opportunities.
By the end of this course, learners will gain practical insights into implementing circular business models, maximizing resource efficiency, and contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future.
Details to know
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Assessment
5 Quizzes
Learning outcomes
- Define and explain the concept of Circular Economy (CE) according to the European Commission and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
- Identify and describe the key principles of the Circular Economy, including eco-design, waste reduction, resource efficiency, and regenerative practices.
- Analyze how CE strategies reduce waste generation and contribute to environmental sustainability, particularly in the agricultural sector.
- Evaluate the economic benefits of CE, such as cost savings, job creation, and increased market opportunities.
- Understand and apply the hierarchy of CE strategies, including reuse, repair, refurbishing, remanufacturing, and recycling.
- Examine the role of CE in reducing dependency on raw material extraction and mitigating climate change through emissions reduction.
- Explore key value chains for circularity, particularly in the food-water-nutrient sectors, and how systemic solutions can be implemented.
- Develop innovative circular business models and propose solutions for integrating CE practices into production and consumption systems.
- Recognize the main actors, policies, and resources shaping the CE ecosystem in Europe, including EU regulations and international frameworks.
- Assess and propose Circular Systemic Solutions (CSS) for improving sustainability in agriculture and other key sectors.
More detailed Learning Outcomes can be found in module introductions.
Circular Economy Concept
Lessons
Introduction 1. Circular Economy Concept ReferencesEconomic Importance and Benefits of the Circular Economy
Lessons
Introduction 1. Economic Importance and Benefits of the Circular Economy ReferencesCircular Economy Strategies and their Hierarchy
Lessons
Introduction 1. Circular Economy Strategies and Their Hierarchy ReferencesKey Value Chains for the Circular Economy and Circular Systemic Solutions (CSS)
Lessons
Introduction 1. Key Value Chains for the Circular Economy and Circular Systemic Solutions (CSS) ReferencesKey Actors and Resources of the Circular Economy Ecosystem in Europe
Lessons
Introduction 1. Key Actors and Resources of the Circular Economy Ecosystem in Europe References
Project nr. 101110547.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.