The Circular Economy: recycling solutions for a sustainable future

The Circular Economy is at the forefront of current global discussions, as seen on last year's World Economic Forum conference in Davos, Switzerland. The Circular Economy concept could be an important enabler of overall sustainability.

The Belgian federal government and the three autonomous regions are all aligned on this transition to a circular economy, and it must be said that Belgium is recognized as being a pioneer in this field.

According the principles of a circular economy, increased maintenance, reuse and reprocessing must be considered right from the product design stage, while avoiding waste and environmental pollution. Also, the use of critical raw materials that are subject to supply shortage is an essential aspect.

Material shortage is an outlook we cannot escape, we can, however, change how we deal with that. Undoubtedly, sustainable product design has never been more important. From the purposeful use of plastics design, and recycling precious metals to upcycling aircrafts, our speakers will leave no stone unturned!

Program:

15:30 - 16:00 Registrations/online login

16:00-16:05 Welcome by Leuven MindGate & online seminar instructions

16:05-16:30 Introduction & Opening Keynote,
by Prof. Karel Van Acker, KU Leuven

16:30-16:50 TBC

16:50-17:10 Keynote by Koen Staut, CEO Aerocircular

17:10-17:15 Break

17:15-17:35 "Metal recycling technology from LiIon batteries, IT devices and car catalysts",
by Dr. Ir. Egbert Lox, Senior Vice President, Umicore

17:35-17:55 "Design from recycling for plastics",
by Prof. Els Du Bois, UAntwerpen

17:55-18:25 Closing Debate with all the speakers,
moderated by Yolan Gielen (Facilitator Circular Economy, Circular Flanders @ OVAM)

18:25-18:30 Closing by Leuven MindGate

18:30-19:30 Networking session

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