Circular and climate neutral
Most of the raw materials used in our society are applied in disposable goods. There is a broad consensus that this linear system is no longer sustainable. A transition towards circular usage of water, nutrients and carbon, in combination with a minimal loss of natural resources, is needed. Only then will our climate recover, and will we be able to continue feeding the ever-growing world population.
Towards a circular and climate-positive society
In the research programme ‘Towards a circular and climate-positive society’, Wageningen University & Research strives to develop new production systems for food and non-food products. We believe these systems should not only be circular and climate-neutral but should even have favourable effects on our climate. We conduct research that contributes to circular and climate-positive production systems on land and in water.
Until the year 2022, we are working on the transition towards a circular a climate-positive society through three interlinked topics:
1. Management of transitions
Within the area Building blocks for governance, we develop instruments that facilitate the transition towards a circular and climate-positive society.
Read more about developing tools for managing and monitoring transitions
2. Primary production systems
The new circular, climate-positive society demands new primary production systems.
Read more about redesigning the production of biological resources
3. Biomass feedstock
The new biobased economy leaves no room for fossil-based products.
Read more about diversifying the use of biomass feedstock
Impact in 2030
Our aim is for Wageningen University & Research to contribute significantly to a circular and climate-positive society by the year 2030. An environmentally friendly society where contemporary production systems have given way to closed-cycle biobased systems beneficial to humans, animals and the world.
Watch two documentaries on the circular household
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Frequently asked questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the circular bio-economy in the videos below:
How can we extract nutrients from manure and turn them into useful products?
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How does one start the transition to a circular economy?
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How does circular agriculture contribute to biodiversity?
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How does a circular economy lead to less greenhouse gas and climate repair?
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Why is sustainable use of our soil so important?
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