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This module will focus on explaining the concept of Circular Economy (CE), and how it can be further embraced as a sustainable way of thinking and operating, for the EU start-ups of the 21st century. The model of CE is highly beneficial, and can positively affect all the economy, the environment and the citizens of the European Union. When correctly applied, CE can become a crucial parameter for economic growth, create new jobs, encourage innovation and build economic and environmental resilience. Once adopted in a coordinated manner by all EU member states, the CE model could act as the catalyst, and hence transforming the European economy, into a more competitive and sustainable one.
Learning and absorbing the basics of the CE model, is very important for startuppers and young entrepreneurs because the European Commission has set out a vision to complete all structural and technological changes in order to upgrade the EU economy into a sustainable one by 2050. In this view, the current “linear economic model” should slowly and steadily abandon the scene of industry operations; instead, the CE model is slowly creating a new shift in the existing paradigm, where the value of products, materials and resources is maintained in the economy for as long as possible, and the generation of waste is minimised. In order to successfully achieve this transition into a more sustainable future, the CE model needs to be disseminated, understood and put into practice. Start-ups are by far quicker to adjust their business models (due to their size & efficient management systems) into this resource-efficient way of thinking, thus they can become leaders in this transition.
Therefore, this module will serve as a very basic guideline for start-ups that wish to differentiate from competition and invest in a more circular approach. There are tremendous opportunities for business development and job creation in a circular economy, and this module will help startuppers realise their existence and importance. Several of EU cases are provided, to help the learner understand the business models adopted by circular start-ups. These cases can help startuppers create new innovative business ideas based on the concept and model of Circular Economy.
The module, as an integral part of the Curriculum “Digital, Modern Entrepreneurship it’s your best chance!”, borrows all the digital aspects of the course design. As such, it will be offered online and easily accessed through a normal desktop/laptop or any mobile device. As in all other modules, this module will utilise innovative teaching/training methods that will help increase the learner’s engagement & commitment.
If we continue to reinforce the ‘take, make, use and throw away’ strategy, our world and our economy will not thrive. Circular economy is about waste reduction and environmental sustainability, but it is also about a radical transformation in how our entire economy functions. We can generate new opportunities and build new jobs by rethinking the way we grow, operate, and buy.
