Advancing Circular Economy Education at ESSEC: Pioneering New Business Roles
ESSEC's Global Circular Economy Chair leads innovative education efforts promoting sustainable business practices.
Key Points
- • Pierre-Emmanuel Saint-Esprit promotes circular economy practices at ESSEC.
- • The Global Circular Economy Chair addresses the education gap for circular economy professionals.
- • The chair collaborates with major companies to provide practical insights in its programs.
- • Design phase integration is crucial for reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.
The Global Circular Economy Chair at ESSEC has taken significant strides in redefining value creation through circular economy principles, led by Pierre-Emmanuel Saint-Esprit. This initiative is focused on reshaping how businesses approach production and sustainability. The chair, established in 2021, addresses the growing need for expertise in circular economy practices, equipping future leaders with the skills necessary to implement these strategies within corporate frameworks.
Saint-Esprit emphasizes that the circular economy is about more than just green practices; it requires a fundamental rethinking of the design and consumption of products. He notes that 45% of emissions are determined during the design phase, highlighting the importance of creating robust, repairable products.
The chair offers a six-month program featuring real industrial cases, supported by leading companies such as L’Oréal and Bouygues. This approach aims to establish the role of Chief Circular Economy Officer as vital for corporate competitiveness and sustainability strategies, reflecting a broader trend toward integrating circular practices into business models.
Additionally, companies like Manutan focus on optimizing segments of their supply chains, reinforcing the practical application of these teaching initiatives. By fostering collaborations with industry leaders, the chair seeks to expand its ecosystem and enhance the adoption of circular economy principles across various sectors, potentially driving a significant transition in business practices towards sustainability.