Introduction to circular economy (5 cr)

Objective

You understand the sustainable use of diminishing natural resources and the need to allocate them efficiently. You understand circular economy as a tool for achieving sustainability and the new business opportunities the transition to circularity may create. You are familiar with the obstacles to the transformation from linear to circular economy and with the ways these may be overcome.

Content

What are linear and circular economy models and what do they mean in terms of natural resources? What are the advantages of shifting from linear to circular economy?

Course material

All sections consist of a theory part and assignments.
Main topics are covered in weekly online lectures, but students are expected to search for information independently.
No specific textbook is required, but good information sources include the websites of Ellen MacArthur foundation, Sitra, UN and the EU website for circular economy. More detailed information is given on lectures.

Study forms and methods

You understand the sustainable use of diminishing natural resources and the need to allocate them efficiently. You understand circular economy as a tool for achieving sustainability and the new business opportunities the transition to circularity may create. You are familiar with the obstacles to the transformation from linear to circular economy and with the ways these may be overcome.
We’ll be looking for answers to these questions:
• What are linear and circular economy models and what do they mean in terms of natural resources?
• What are the advantages of shifting from linear to circular economy?

RDI and work-related cooperation

None

Timing of exams and assignments

Assignment due dates announced in the beginning of the course.

International cooperation

None

Student workload

135 h (5CU), more detailed description given in the beginning of the course.

Course part description

Announced later

Further information

Detailed description given in the beginning of the course.

Evaluation scale

1-5

Assessment methods and criteria

Completing the course requires studying the theory material and completing the given assignments. All assignments are evaluated and influence the course grade. The maximum amount of points for each assignment is indicated in the instructions. The course grade is determined by the sum of points collected as follows:
• Grade 1: 50-59 points
• Grade 2: 60-69 points
• Grade 3: 70-79 points
• Grade 4: 80-89 points
• Grade 5: 90- points