The 1/2019 issue of Equilibri is devoted to the circular economy, a cross-cutting topic of the new frontiers of FEEM research and a key theme for sustainability.
This issue of Equilibri follows a broad and articulated path. The opening contribution is by Giulio Sapelli, professor of economic history, who emphasizes how the circular economy can only “arise from association, i.e. from the interaction of different people”, followed by the interviews to William McDonough, the revolutionary architect of the cradle-to-cradle approach , and Ellen MacArthur, solo sailor and founder of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation for the circular economy.
It then discusses the economy of tomorrow with scholars, economists and representatives of the business world, and describes the transition to sustainable circular cities.
It discusses work, skills and professions of the circular economy, and focuses on waste as an educational model and social action. This issue of Equilibri also includes two stories, the first about the Sassi of Matera, where in ancient times rainwater was collected and recycled, and the second story about Ghana, where coconut waste is turned into charcoal.
There are also three articles by young FEEM researchers that focus on Africa, a continent at the heart of change. What lessons can we learn from non-western economies? How can energy access in Africa be improved while keeping in mind Africa’s need for a sustainable development? How can an adequate legislative framework be developed to help African countries implement circular economy policies?