Course Description

"Circular Economy: Critical Raw Materials - Recycling and Remanufacturing" is an innovative course offered by DelftX that addresses the pressing issue of resource scarcity in our modern world. This introductory-level course delves into the challenges and opportunities surrounding critical raw materials (CRMs) and explores sustainable solutions through circular procurement, efficient recycling technologies, and smart waste management practices.

What students will learn from the course

• Understanding the current challenges and opportunities in resource resilience
• Identifying environmental problems caused by mismanagement of CRM-containing products
• Exploring various waste collection methods and efficient collection strategies
• Learning about remanufacturing, refurbishment, re-use, and recycling processes for CRM-containing products
• Implementing waste prevention through chain optimization
• Recognizing the benefits of circular procurement in maintaining CRMs in the loop
• Applying product design principles to support efficient recycling and remanufacturing
• Developing new business models to reduce waste and enhance resource resilience

Prerequisites or skills necessary to complete the course

• Secondary school (high school) level chemistry knowledge
• Basic understanding of business concepts

What the course will cover

• Introduction to critical raw materials (CRMs) and their importance in everyday products
• Environmental issues and regulations related to electric and electronic waste
• Innovative product design for reusing, recycling, and remanufacturing
• Smarter CRM management and identification in products
• Supply chain scarcity and its impact on businesses and economic development
• Waste collection systems and recycling psychology
• Recycling technologies, including pre-processing and metallurgy
• Remanufacturing and refurbishment systems, including reverse logistics
• Circular procurement strategies for governments and companies
• New business models focused on product longevity and sustainability

Who this course is for

• Professionals involved in producing products containing CRMs (e.g., electronics industry)
• Local or national government officials responsible for waste management and recycling
• Students interested in waste management, electronics, industrial design, and industrial ecology
• Businesses looking to improve their resource resilience and sustainability practices
• Individuals passionate about circular economy and sustainable resource management

How learners can use these skills in the real world

• Implementing efficient waste management systems in businesses and communities
• Designing products with improved recyclability and longevity
• Developing innovative business models that prioritize resource conservation
• Advising on policy-making for sustainable resource management
• Improving supply chain resilience through better understanding of CRMs
• Creating awareness campaigns on the importance of recycling and proper e-waste disposal
• Conducting research on new recycling technologies and methodologies
• Implementing circular procurement strategies in organizations

Syllabus

• Week 1: Introduction to CRMs, waste management challenges, and environmental issues
• Week 2: Waste collection systems and recycling psychology
• Week 3: Recycling technology, economics, and challenges
• Week 4: Remanufacturing and refurbishment systems
• Week 5: Product design for improved recycling and material substitution
• Week 6: New business models and circular procurement strategies

By enrolling in this course, learners will gain valuable insights into the circular economy, critical raw materials management, and sustainable resource practices. This knowledge is crucial for addressing the growing challenges of resource scarcity and environmental sustainability in our rapidly evolving world.