Department of Industrial Ecology

Our Mission: To optimize human well-being within the constraints of planetary boundaries through innovative research, education, and partnerships that advance sustainable production and consumption. We strive to remain global leaders in developing and applying systems-based approaches, methodological innovations, and interdisciplinary collaborations to address critical environmental challenges and drive the transition towards a circular, carbon-neutral economy.

Industrial Ecology (IE) is an interdisciplinary scientific field that examines, quantifies and models the flow of materials and energy through society aiming to align them with sustainable practices. It views production and consumption as interconnected networks where waste from one process can serve as input for another, promoting a more circular economy. Just like doctors analyse the metabolism of their patients, Industrial Ecologists analyse the metabolism of societies.  By integrating principles from environmental science, engineering, economics, and social sciences, Industrial Ecology seeks to minimize environmental impacts while optimizing resource use and efficiency. Key areas of focus include the development of quantitative analytical tools like Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA), Material Flow Analysis (MFA) and Multi-Regional Input-Output Analysis (MRIO) and concepts like Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) eco-design, Industrial Symbiosis, Circular Economy and (Deep) Decarbonization. Ultimately, Industrial Ecology provides a systems-based approach to addressing global sustainability challenges by rethinking production and consumption patterns and processes in such a way that our impact remains within planetary boundaries.