Abstract:
The circular economy (CE) emphasises the optimisation of resource yields by
keeping products, components and materials at their highest utility and value. This
recently popularised concept has created awareness within businesses, government and
policymakers. However, there is a discourse that the concept lacks scientific rigour and
has primarily been led by practitioners such as policy makers, social scientists and
business consultants.
Resources in the CE concept are referred to as biological nutrients and technical
nutrients. Based on the CE resource recovery model, biological nutrients such as organic
waste/by-products are expected to return to the system. However, the current waste
management sector is not equipped with how to innovate and/or create value from
resources termed as waste/by-products. Whilst CE is a commendable strategy with
insightful case studies, the philosophy currently lacks robust design guidance that can
provide businesses with the tools and tactics required to meet the agenda.
Therefore, this EngD research applies design thinking innovation methodology to
an existing business faced with the challenge of adopting a circular business model for
resource recovery. The EngD research is based on Ecoganix, an organic waste treatment
company. Ecoganix manages Paper Mill Sludge (PMS), a by-product derived from the
waste-water treatment of paper mills. In the UK, a million tonnes of PMS is currently
produced annually.
The management of PMS is an environmental challenge and the second highest
cost for the sector after energy consumption. The PMS is collected by Ecoganix from 7
paper mills in the UK for use as soil improvement on farm land . The current management
system of PMS is unsustainable and short-term. Moreover, the market is highly
competitive due to increasing recycling rates and competitive pricing. Nonetheless, this
material PMS is rich in organic cellulose fibres and inorganic minerals. Thus, a design
thinking methodology is used to create new value streams of materials from this byproduct...[cont.]
