2.1

Introduction to Part 2: Design for Recycling and Circularity

Part 2 of the course takes us through a comprehensive list of design concepts and frameworks, including design thinking, systems thinking and problem solving, and different case studies. We hope to inspire and create new ways of working with circularity that brings about positive changes on all levels of society.

Week 3 introduces Design Thinking and Systems Thinking as essential problem-solving tools for sustainability. The core of the section explores six key frameworks for circularity, divided into two groups: industry-focused principles (Design for Recycling, Cradle to Cradle, Life Cycle Assessment) and nature-based concepts (Biomimicry, Biophilic Design, Permaculture Design). The week concludes with a practical Circular Re-Design assignment, encouraging the application of these principles to an object or system.

The following week focuses on nine different Design Case Studies divided into three sections – Consumer Products, Built Structures, and Land and Lived Spaces – providing a more in-depth discussion of how to work with design for circularity. The case studies will look at bicycles and mobility, clothes and fashion, Organic architecture and Earthship biotecture, Permaculture gardens and local food, and many more examples! We wrap up the week with the weekly assignment where we summarize Part 2.

© Daniel Mossberg, CEMUS, Uppsala University and Sonali Phadke, studio Alternatives and Stephanie Foote