Circular Economy is a forward-looking concept, which means embracing an attitude of continuous review of how we consume materials and resources, how we design our products, how we adapt technology to prevent and minimize waste generation, and how we ensure the functionality of our products for longer time. By continuing to rethink processes and products through the lens of a circular economy we can deliver a better, more sustainable future.
For Siemens Gamesa, ‘it is all about integrating sustainability-thinking into all functions’. For example, one of wind energy’s greatest challenges is to make sure that the blades from the wind projects that are being decommissioned do not end in landfill. The opportunity therefore lies in finding ways to ensure these blades are either recycled or repurposed. Siemens Gamesa has already taken significant steps in this direction by developing the RecyclableBlade, designed to be recovered at the end of its lifecycle, and the GreenerTower, which reduces CO₂ emissions during manufacturing by using more sustainable materials and processes.
Dr. Nancy Bocken, Professor in Sustainable Business at Maastricht University, opens the debate: 'The most successful companies start with a circularity vision, how will they use products to make the world a better place?'
