Tag: Circular Economy
Industrial ecology – biomimicry blueprints for sustainable systems
Engineers have long drawn inspiration from nature. Examples of such biomimicry include passive ventilation systems modelled after termite mounds and wind turbine blades with scalloped edges, inspired by humpback whale flippers, which reduce drag dramatically.
Food waste – tackling a complex problem systematically
In South Africa where 2.1 million people experience hunger weekly, up to 10.3 million tons of food is wasted each year.
The figures are alarming....
Essential strategies for building resilience and profitability
Starting a new business is an exhilarating venture, filled with both opportunities and challenges. However, the path to success requires more than just a great idea - it demands a strategic approach, careful planning, and the ability to adapt to evolving market conditions.
Leveraging advances in technology to drive sustainable construction
Globally, the building and construction industry has been putting more emphasis on using energy-efficient technologies and equipment to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption in buildings. This has resulted in the integration of renewable energy sources in building designs with solar panels, wind turbines, and even geothermal systems becoming commonplace.
Waste Governance – a mindset shift to achieving sustainability
We live in a time where human beings are better off than they have ever been, yet our natural systems are under stress and millions of people are suffering. Sufficient evidence and rationale support the imperative to alter our behaviour and embrace sustainable living practices. Yet, why do we hesitate to do so? And if we are indeed taking steps, are we progressing swiftly enough?
eWaste – new approach to tackling Lithium-Ion batteries
Addressing the challenges posed by the disposal of lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries requires sophisticated and effective recycling processes to ensure that valuable materials are recovered safely and efficiently.
Hosted learnerships connect funding to job creation & growth
Skills development in the form of learnerships is an essential element of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) scorecard, accounting for a significant portion of the score for large enterprises in particular. However, not all businesses have the capacity, availability, or ability to take on sufficient learners to meet their obligations.
Driving sustainable development – circularity & ESG in mining
Mining is a historically linear process – we take materials from the earth, make products from them and eventually throw them away as waste. With the intensification of climate change, environmental degradation, pollution – all products of linear economies – the mining industry needs to transition to a circular economy.
The evolving role of the CIO requires a focus on sustainability
As the world becomes increasingly digital and a shift by organisations to pursue generative AI, a shift is taking place within boardrooms. CIOs are now fulfilling more strategic roles to drive digital transformation and sustainability.
Waste Governance – understanding Extended Producer Responsibility
In the global quest for sustainable waste management solutions, the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has emerged as a pivotal strategy. Originating in Europe in the 1990’s, EPR essentially places the onus on manufacturers to take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, from production to final disposal.
