Course Description

Discover the innovative world of sustainable packaging systems in this comprehensive course offered by DelftX. As our global population and affluence grow, so does our demand for packaging materials and the subsequent waste generation. This course addresses the urgent need to rethink how we design, recover, and reuse packaging to capture wasted potential and minimize environmental impact.

Dive into the fascinating realm of circular economy design and business strategies, learning how to reimagine products and services from a systems perspective. You'll explore ways to minimize waste, maximize positive economic, environmental, and social impacts, and keep resources in a cycle of restoration.

What Students Will Learn

• Application of circular design principles to create 'closed loop' packaging systems
• Business strategies that support sustainable packaging systems
• Opportunities in designing with renewable, bio-based materials
• Best practices through case studies with industry frontrunners
• Understanding of the circular economy concept and its application to packaging
• Strategies to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency
• Techniques to reimagine products and services from a systems perspective

Prerequisites

This intermediate-level course is intended for students and professionals with:

• Basic knowledge of the circular economy and an interest in packaging, or
• Experience in packaging looking for circular opportunities

For those new to the concept of circular economy, it's recommended to take the "Circular Economy: An Introduction" MOOC before starting this course.

Course Content

• Introduction to sustainable packaging systems
• Circular economy principles and their application to packaging
• Design strategies for 'closed loop' packaging systems
• Business models supporting sustainable packaging
• Renewable and bio-based materials in packaging design
• Case studies featuring industry leaders in sustainable packaging
• Environmental, economic, and social impacts of packaging systems
• Waste reduction and resource efficiency in packaging

Who This Course Is For

• Students interested in sustainable packaging design, particularly those in design-related fields
• Professionals in the packaging industry seeking to incorporate circular economy principles into their work
• Individuals passionate about sustainability and waste reduction
• Business leaders looking to implement sustainable practices in their organizations
• Environmental scientists and researchers focusing on waste management and circular economy

Real-World Applications

• Develop innovative packaging solutions that minimize waste and environmental impact
• Implement circular economy principles in existing packaging systems within companies
• Create new business models centered around sustainable packaging
• Contribute to the reduction of plastic pollution and waste in the environment
• Design products with a focus on recyclability and reusability
• Advise organizations on sustainable packaging strategies
• Conduct research on new materials and technologies for sustainable packaging
• Educate consumers about the importance of sustainable packaging choices