New SINReM study track on circular societies

A new SINReM major on “circular societies” at Ghent University will focus from 2020 onwards on re-engineering the value chain, designing sustainable processes, systems and new business models for evolving towards a circular society. In this study track, data on e.g. flows of materials within the society are collected, analysed, and processed, and the sustainability of these novel processes and systems is assessed. Prevention of waste generation is targeted, and generated wastes are explored as potential new resources. These activities create symbiosis between different stakeholders and actors in the value chain. Particular attention goes to the management of societal changes, aligned with the sustainable development goals. The city of Ghent acts as a central case in this major. The topic of the Master dissertation should also fit into this scope. Mandatory courses deal with sustainable management of resources in the circular economy (including e.g. industrial symbiosis) (5 ECTS) and the design of sustainable circular cities (summer school – 3 ECTS). Elective courses (7-9 ECTS) focus on sustainable development, sustainable waste (water) management, and the organisation of circular cities and societies, including transport and logistics, sustainable mobility and sustainable energy production.