Abstract

Circular economy is a concept for sustainable resource management that aims to reduce environmental impacts caused by human activities. In times of increasingly noticeable climate change, circular economy offers a “toolbox” for innovation in the direction of a more environmentally, socially and economically sustainable world. This toolbox for the future has gained growing popularity in politics, business and civil society over the past ten years. At the same time, the impacts of circular economy initiatives on ecosystems and human well-being are still poorly explored or reflected.  This lecture will explore the potentials and risks of a circular economy for the sustainable management of raw materials and climate change.