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Industry-Informed Workshops to Develop Graduate Skill Sets in the Circular Economy Using Systems Thinking
Louise Summerton1, James H Clark1, Glenn A Hurst1
1Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence, Department of Chemistry, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom.
Journal of Chemical Education
|February 14, 2020
Summary
Sustainable manufacturing requires a systems thinking approach for the chemical industry. Interactive workshops equip graduate students with essential skills for economic growth, environmental, and social sustainability.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Industrial Ecology
Background:
- Growing global demand for chemicals and resource depletion necessitate sustainable practices.
- Climate change regulations and public pressure require fundamental shifts in industrial operations.
- Sustainable manufacturing integrates economic growth with environmental and social responsibility through multidisciplinary collaboration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the design and development of systems thinking workshops for graduate students.
- To equip future professionals with the knowledge and skills for sustainable manufacturing.
- To foster a holistic understanding beyond "greening" individual processes.
Main Methods:
- Designing and developing a series of interactive workshops focused on systems thinking.
- Consulting closely with industry to align content with real-world challenges.
- Incorporating multidisciplinary course content, including industrial case studies and expert-led delivery.
- Focusing on graduate students to build a pipeline of skilled professionals.
Main Results:
- Workshops provide insights into sustainable manufacturing challenges: change management, commercialization, environmental impact, circular economy, legislation, and bioresources.
- Content covers converting waste into valuable products, emphasizing practical application.
- The program bridges academic expertise with industry needs through collaborative learning.
Conclusions:
- Systems thinking workshops are crucial for advancing sustainable manufacturing in the chemical industry.
- Multidisciplinary education is essential for addressing complex sustainability issues.
- The developed workshop program offers a scalable model for professional development in sustainability.
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