AIEN is launching a new series of focused Thought Starters (TS) to unpack some of the most pressing issues in sustainable resource use through the lens of Industrial Ecology. Each TS will tackle a specific topic, outlining the key challenges, why they matter, and what it takes to move toward effective solutions. The intent is simple: to spark informed discussion and inspire action on the most promising pathways to progress.
This initiative is driven by AIEN in collaboration with expert guest contributors, each bringing deep knowledge relevant to the issue at hand. All contributions align with our core themes: ecological integrity, environmental responsibility, and economically sustainable resource use.
Each Thought Starter is a provocation – carefully considered yet bold. We aim to present what could be the most effective frameworks for progress. If our proposals aren’t the best solutions, we challenge readers to suggest what is – while still meeting the critical criteria outlined.
Ultimately, this series is a call to action: to “put up” better alternatives or collaborate with AIEN in refining and advocating for the solutions proposed.
Our first series will address the pressing and underachieved goal of a nationally harmonised, fully functioning Circular Economy (CE). This will unfold across four themed TSs:
- TS1: (CLICK TO VIEW) The pivotal role of Product Initiators & Designers (the PI&Ds, or the “brands”), based on the principle that a successful CE starts with thoughtful design.
- TS2: The role of consumers as engaged stakeholders essential to CE outcomes.
- TS3: The redesign and national harmonisation of post-consumer systems and infrastructure to truly close the loop and to fully support the PI&D’s in the realisation of their respective goals and objectives
- TS4: A consolidated, peer-reviewed discussion paper to support advocacy at national, state, and local levels.
We invite our members and readers to critique, challenge, and build upon these Thought Starters – helping us shape the strategies that will drive real, lasting change. A feedback link will accompany each paper, and a summary of all responses will be circulated in the month following its release.