Circular Economy

Recommended Prerequisites

A basic knowledge in Thermodynamics is required. Basic knowledge of Energy conversion and Management as well as of Economics and Costing is recommended.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical lectures (T): oral exposition of the topics, promoting critical thinking.

Theoretical practical lectures (TP): Resolution of exercices, presentation and discussion of topics and Circular Economy examples.

Grading based on final exam (100%). 

Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes aim to enable students to understand and discuss the potential of Circular Economy, as a strategic concept based on the prevention, reduction, reuse, recovery and recycling of materials and energy, to replace the linear economy “end-of-life” concept by new circular flows of reuse, restoration and renovation.

Concepts, strategies and methodological tools are introduced in an integrated, systemic and interdisciplinary perspective, promoting discussion and critical analysis. Understand the concept of Circular Economy and the relevance of life cycle thinking. Solving exercises and analysis of real examples and case studies, showing how the circular economy is a key element to promote resource decouple from economic growth.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

- Circular Economy (EC): Introduction, concepts and historical perspective. Strategies and tools.

- New business and production models (promoting energy and material efficiency and the valorization of by-products and waste). Eco-parks and industrial symbiosis.

- Life cycle assessment and Ecodesign: methodology and applications. Material Flows Analysis.

- Performance Economy, focused on the maintenance and exploitation of stock, promoting value and sustainability. The relevance of extending the service life (reuse, remanufacturing, reconditioning). Servicisation and dematerialization.

- Circular economy and bioeconomy. Action Plan for the Circular Economy in Portugal and the European strategy.

Head Lecturer(s)

Fausto Miguel Cereja Seixas Freire

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

FCT (2019) Agenda Temática de Investigação e Inovação Economia Circular, FCT, Lisboa 

Grupo Interministerial Economia Circular (2018) Liderar a Transição: Plano de Ação para a Economia Circular em Portugal 2017-2020.

European Environment Agency (2018). The circular economy and the bioeconomy. Partners in sustainability. EEA Report No 8/2018.

European Environment Agency (EEA). (2017). Circular by design: Products in the circular economy. EEA Report No 6/2017.

Stahel, W. (2020) The Circular Economy. A User's Guide. Routledge

Stahel, W. and Clift, R. (2016) Stocks and Flows in the Performance Economy. Chapter 7 in "Taking Stock of Industrial Ecology” Edited by Clift, R & Druckman, A. Springer