On March 12, an inspiring mini symposium took place in the SKILL building Data-driven Circular Business place. High-tech companies are increasingly aware of sustainability and are actively working on it. Yet circularity remains a challenge due to the complexity of products and processes. Data plays an increasingly important role in this. During the symposium, organized by the ICD and the Ynova Innovation Platform, participants were given practical tools to get started.
Strategic Launch: Circular Thinking in Ecosystems
Jacqueline Hofstede of Ynova opened the symposium with a strategic look at circular thinking. She introduced the material cycle, a new concept that replaces traditional supply chain thinking. This perspective helps companies structurally integrate circularity into their processes.
Sustainability and Data: Blockchain as Key
Paul Bessems of Weconomics explained how data is crucial for circular business. He argued that sustainability becomes easier when you think from data. Blockchain and tokens (value attributes) can help validate and preserve data in the factory and in the chain. He argued that collective databases in ecosystems are the basis for circular collaboration.
CSRD and Data Management: Less, but Better Data
Joost Ruikes by Montis-Q approached the data challenge from the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). He introduced the dual materiality matrix, a method by which companies can dramatically reduce the number of data points to be reported. He provided insights into how auditors look at these reports, helping companies be better prepared for regulations.
Life Cycle Assessments: The Engineer's Puzzle
Micha Klaarenbeek by Ecoras took participants into the world of Life Cycle Assessments (LCA). Using a glass, a can and a plastic bottle, he showed how impact assessment and scoping work. He discussed where the necessary data comes from and how companies can track it to make sustainable choices.
Digital Product Passport: Data that Travels with you
Frans Beckers by Cirmar concluded the symposium with a presentation on the digital product passport. This passport contains condensed LCA data, keeping product information available throughout the chain. Beckers showed practical examples in which QR codes provided access to detailed impact data. He also discussed European developments to create a standard for this technology.
Conclusion: Practical Steps for Northern Companies
The mini symposium offered an intensive afternoon full of new insights. Speakers shared concrete solutions that engineers can actually get started with right away. Participants gained valuable knowledge about how data can help achieve circular goals. Thanks to this session, northern companies can take further steps in the transition to a more sustainable future.
