DeepSummary
In this episode, Walter Stahel discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the circular economy and resilience. He explains that the pandemic has not affected stocks like buildings, vehicles, or infrastructure, but has disrupted flows like manufacturing and transportation. This highlights the importance of local or regional production for resilience.
Stahel talks about the International Society for the Circular Economy (IS4CE) and its inaugural digital conference on July 6-7, 2020. He discusses the objectives of the society, which include refining circular economy theory, connecting higher education initiatives, sharing research, and promoting educational offerings.
Stahel also explores the cultural and behavioral aspects of the circular economy, noting that different regions have different needs and challenges. He emphasizes the importance of considering these factors in the transition to a more circular, resilient economy.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- COVID-19 has demonstrated the importance of resilient, locally-focused circular systems that prioritize the maintenance and operation of existing stocks over material flows.
- The International Society for the Circular Economy aims to advance circular economy theory and practice through research, education, and cross-sector collaboration.
- Decentralized, local production can increase resilience and reduce reliance on global supply chains and transportation.
- Cultural and regional differences must be considered in the transition to a circular economy, as developing countries may have different needs and priorities.
- Digital technologies present both opportunities and challenges for the circular economy, with potential benefits for communication and resource tracking balanced against privacy and health concerns.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for preparedness and resilience in the face of unexpected events, which aligns with the principles of the circular economy.
- The definition of what is essential for society has shifted from manufacturing and material flows to the maintenance and operation of existing stocks, which is a key aspect of the circular economy.
- Behavioral and cultural factors, in addition to technological and economic considerations, will play a crucial role in the transition to a circular economy.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “The worst thing is the unknown unknowns.“ by Walter Stahel
- “So the definition of what is essential for society has shifted away from manufacturing, from the flows, to the people operating and maintaining stocks.“ by Walter Stahel
- “We have to decentralize where we have production flows, we have to decentralize it in order to make them resilient.“ by Walter Stahel
- “The Covid-19 experience has shown, will show that things are very different for countries that have all the stuff they need and countries that, even if you look at hospitals in Africa or in certain Latin South America, it's not only the face masks and breathing asparagus that are missing. It's also the hospitals and the trained nurses, the trained doctors, and so the human capital, sometimes even water, clean water.“ by Walter Stahel
Entities
Company
Organization
Person
Product
Book
Episode Information
Getting In the Loop: Circular Economy | Sustainability | Closing the Loop
Katherine Whalen
6/1/20