Industrial Ecology

Industrial Ecology (IE) is a concept that involves the study of industrial systems and their interactions with the environment. It aims to reduce the environmental impact of industrial activities by promoting a circular economy where waste is minimized, and resources are used efficiently.

Biological Cycle in the Circular Economy

The circular economy model aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible. In the biological cycle, waste from one process becomes a resource for another. Biomass is a key resource in the biological cycle as it can be used to produce a range of products and energy sources.

Patagonia

Patagonia is an outdoor apparel company that has made a commitment to sustainability and minimizing their environmental impact. They utilize principles of industrial ecology by incorporating recycled materials and using closed-loop systems in their production processes.

Terracycle

Terracycle is a company that specializes in recycling hard-to-recycle materials such as cigarette butts and plastic packaging. They utilize principles of industrial ecology by finding new uses for waste materials and minimizing the environmental impact of waste disposal.

Kalundborg Symbiosis

Kalundborg Symbiosis is a network of companies located in Denmark that have created a closed-loop system where waste products from one company are used as raw materials for another company. This industrial ecosystem has reduced waste and created economic benefits for the companies involved.

Ecover

Ecover is a company that produces eco-friendly cleaning products using natural and renewable ingredients. They utilize principles of industrial ecology by minimizing waste and using closed-loop systems in their production processes.