Promotion lecture for associate professor, by Mélanie Despeisse, 24 Aug, 2021
Abstract:
The external pressures to tackle environmental issues, such as climate change, are pushing governments and organisations to formulate ambitious environmental goals and strategies. Some companies have adopted greener approaches like eco-efficiency and circularity to reduce their impacts on the planet. However, these approaches are often considered as add-ons to business-as-usual and their implementation is still the exception rather than the norm. In this lecture, we will look at industrial systems through the lens of sustainable development and translate sustainability concepts into sustainable manufacturing practices. We will explore how new technologies can help us sense what humans cannot to unlock new levels of performance. Finally, we will discuss how to shift from "doing less bad" to "doing more good" for a more positive outlook on the future.
Mélanie Despeisse research area focuses on the relationship between industry and environmental sustainability at various scales, from operational resource efficiency in manufacturing processes to corporate social responsibility in strategic planning. The aim of her research is to develop tools and methods to help companies in creating sustainable value for society by implementing concepts such as eco-efficiency and circularity.