Circular and climate-neutral (KB-34)

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.

We are working on the transition towards a circular a climate-positive society through four 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.

2. Primary production systems

The new circular, climate-positive society demands new primary production systems.

3. Biobased products

The new biobased economy leaves no room for fossil-based products.

4. Assessment of syngergies and trade-offs

This sizeable project with regard to the assessment of synergies and trade-offs links all the KB-34 ‘Circular and climate neutral’ themes.

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.