The Circular Economy: From Theory to Reality – Perspectives from Investors, Packaging and the Petrochemical Industries

The circular economy is an alternative to the traditional linear economy of materials extraction, production, use and disposal. Though the circular economy model aims to go beyond the practices of reducing, reusing and recycling by incorporating reengineering, redesign and remanufacturing, the process has to be considered throughout the entire value chain. Transitioning to such a system, of course, comes with challenges. By examining several actors along the value chain, it is evident that stakeholders are already coming together to create innovative solutions — from the financing of circular initiatives, to the production of raw materials, to the transformation of packaging.

At this webinar, Paula Luu of Closed Loop Partners explored this issue from the perspective of an investment sector that is dedicated to promoting the circular economy transformation. Ron Abbott, sustainability technical manager at Chevron Phillips Chemical, a major polyethylene manufacturer in the U.S., discussed how petrochemical companies are advancing a circular economy for plastics. Finally, Phil Rozenski, vice president of public affairs and sustainability at Novolex, a leading company in North American packaging, discussed how the company is rethinking the circular economy process. Rachel A. Meidl, fellow in energy and environment, moderated the discussion.

This event was sponsored by the Baker Institute Center for Energy Studies. Follow @CES_Baker_Inst on Twitter, and join the conversation with #BakerEnergy.