Circular models of production and consumption

Objectives: The course highlights how the concept of sustainable development overcomes the traditional production paradigm, in which the economic system and the ecosystem are characterized by a linear correlation. The new paradigm of circular economy, promotes the adoption of new patterns of production and consumption, aiming at increase the efficient use of resources in order to achieve a greater harmonic growth of economy, society and environment.

Expected results:
The course aims to provide a basic knowledge about the circular economy concepts and the related production and consumption models; it also analyses the techniques oriented to the implementation of the aforementioned models also in the view of the Industry 4.0 objectives.
Acquirable skills:

Knowledge and ability to understand
- Describe the characteristics of the traditional production paradigm and the circular paradigm
- Explain the current circular patterns of production and consumption and their future evolution

Autonomy of judgment
- Evaluate the technical, economic and environmental efficiency of circular production and consumption models

Communication skills
- Multi-disciplinary and interdisciplinary communication skills about eco-compatible development.

Course program:

Part I: CIRCULAR ECONOMY AS A NEW PARADIGM OF PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION.

- The birth of the "traditional paradigm"
- Fordism as a model of linear economy
- "Lean" production as a transition to "clean" production
- "Natural Capital" as an internal variable in the production system.

Part II: EVOLUTION OF EU POLICIES: FROM ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
- Birth of the EU's environmental policy
- Europe 2020 - "A strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth"
- 7th EU action plan - "Living well within the limits of our Planet"
- "The missing link: the EU action plan for the circular economy"

Part III: CIRCULAR MODEL OF PRODUCTION
- Reduction
- Reuse
- Remanufacturing
- Recycling
- Disposal

Part IV: CIRCULAR PATTERN OF CONSUMPTION.
- Current consumption models
- Consumer education (aware, responsible and active)
- Integrated policies for sustainable consumption

Teaching method: The course is structured in 72 hours of frontal teaching, divided into 2-hours modules, according to the academic calendar. The frontal teaching consists of theoretical lessons (lectures) and seminars held by business experts on the topics covered.

Assessment methods: The final exam consists of an oral examination with an evaluation in thirtieths. The object of examination reflect those treated during the course. In order to pass the exam it is necessary a correct use of the terminology and a clear and concise exposition that highlights the logical connections between the aspects considered.