Circular Economy, Industrial Ecology and Short Supply Chain [Paperback]

In contrast to the linear take-make-dispose model of resource consumption, a new industrial model is proposed in the form of a circular economy. This model aims to optimize the use of resources and to reduce or eliminate waste, and is based on re-use, repair, ecodesign, industrial ecology, sustainable supply and responsible consumption.

Industrial ecology and short supply chains can contribute – particularly on a territorial scale – to the emergence of a real sustainable development. This book develops these concepts and presents experiments that are taking place in France and other countries, in addition to an integrated model which details the mechanisms through which industrial ecology and short supply chains can generate economic, social and environmental profits. The possible issues and obstacles facing these new practices are also analyzed, in order to develop the outline of an adapted management and governance which will enable them to be fully realized.

Preface vii

Introduction ix

Chapter 1. Building Region-based Sustainable Development: Vocabulary and Tools 1

1.1. Circular economy 2

1.1.1. The circular economy according to the MacArthur Foundation 2

1.1.2. Experiments in circular economy 5

1.1.3. Factual and scientific origins of circular economy 14

1.2. Industrial ecology 21

1.2.1. Industrial ecology and sustainable development 21

1.2.2. Industrial metabolism and symbiosis 25

1.2.3. Experiments in industrial ecology 28

1.3. Short supply chains 38

1.3.1. Origins of short food supply chains: criticism of industrial “long” supply chains 39

1.3.2. Forms and functioning of short food supply chains 44