More information

This sandpit session is organized by the new Flagship Topic “Circular Societies” from the Alliance between Eindhoven University of Technology, Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University and the University Medical Centre Utrecht.

During this event we will identify and explore future research questions with you. The session will start with pitches from practice from the hospital of the UMC Utrecht. Which challenges to they encounter en route towards a circular UMC Utrecht? In breakout groups we will bring together interdisciplinary expertise, researchers and develop research questions.

Our ambition is to do groundbreaking research relevant for practical solutions contributing to societal transitions towards circular Societies. We do this in close cooperation with societal partners. More information: Circular Safe Society – Challenging Future Generations.

Social issues
The demand for raw materials for food, accommodation, clothing and electrical appliances has risen sharply in recent years, whereas the available supply is shrinking. A circular economy does not produce waste and keeps recycling raw materials. This allows us to unburden the environment and to continue to lead prosperous lives. The cooperation between TU/e, WUR, UU and UMC Utrecht brings together complementary areas of expertise which together are needed to find safe, responsible ways of reducing the use of raw materials.

Approach

Circularity as a leading principle is attractive but yet abstract. How does the principle relate to practical situations for citizens and companies? Which changes in behavior and legislation are needed? By using and working with cases, the working group will be able to share transferable insights and views.

Healthcare case

The healthcare sector is a major consumer of energy, water and raw materials, making it a considerable polluter. In order to reduce the sector’s CO2 emissions and promote a circular approach, sustainable alternatives must be found in different areas such as energy consumption and the use of plastic. The necessary changes that need to be made, are not only technical changes but need also to be made in the field of legislation or in the daily working routine.

The motto of the strategic alliance between Eindhoven University of Technology, Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University and University Medical Centre Utrecht is Challenging Future Generations. We strive to do that by putting young researchers, lecturers and students at the helm and by collaborating across the borders of the scientific disciplines. In the alliance, the four institutions combine their expertise in order to contribute to social transitions in the fields of health, food, energy and sustainability.