Abstract

The transition to a circular economy is often presented as a straightforward, neutral and apolitical process, characterised by an implicit techno-optimistic and eco-modernist stance. However, recent research illustrates that the circular economy is best understood as an umbrella term that might come to define very contrasting visions of sustainable development. Despite this, there continues to be a lack of discussion about the basic assumptions regarding social and economic structures on which the circular economy should be based, with research predominantly focusing on technical and practical questions.

In this talk, based on recently published papers and on ongoing research, I will assess the value foundations of different plausible configurations of the circular economy, along with implications for the organisation of production and distribution systems.

Recording available HERE and slides HERE.

About the speaker

Andrea Genovese works as a Professor of Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Sheffield University Management School. He has leading expertise in sustainable supply chain management, with particular emphasis on the development of Decision Support Systems for dealing with complex problems arising in the coordination of production and distribution units. He is currently leading several EU-funded research projects, investigating the transition towards the Circular Economy.

Google Scholar profile: https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?hl=en&user=8upjwjEAAAAJ