Prof. Fiona Charnley

University of Exeter, UK

Towards a Sustainable Circular Economy: Reflections on the achievements, challenges, impact and legacy of the UK's Flagship Research Programme

Abstract:

The UKRI-funded National Interdisciplinary Circular Economy Research (NICER) Programme was launched four years ago with an ambitious vision: to accelerate the transition to a circular economy in the UK through world-class, interdisciplinary research and innovation. As Director of the coordinating Circular Economy Hub, Fiona will reflect on the journey of the NICER Programme, highlighting the key achievements, challenges, and transformative impacts realized over its lifespan. In her talk, Fiona will explore how the programme fostered unprecedented collaboration across diverse disciplines - from materials science and engineering to social sciences and economics - to generate whole system solutions for critical resource challenges. The talk will delve into the strategic decisions and leadership approaches that enabled the programme to deliver impactful research, influence policy, and build a vibrant community of circular economy practitioners. Specific examples of breakthrough research and their tangible contributions to reducing waste, maximizing resource value, and creating new economic opportunities will be showcased. Furthermore, this reflection will candidly address the inherent complexities of leading a large-scale, multi-faceted research initiative, offering insights into navigating interdisciplinary dynamics, stakeholder engagement, and translating research into real-world application. Fiona will conclude by outlining the enduring legacy of the NICER Programme and highlight transferable lessons and best practices, offering valuable insights for other nations embarking on their own journeys towards a more sustainable and circular future.

Biography:

Fiona Charnley is Professor of Circular Innovation at the University of Exeter, Co-Director of the Exeter Centre for the Circular Economy and Senior Associate of the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership. Fiona leads multiple government and industry-funded research projects covering topics such as the use of digital technology to accelerate the adoption of the circular economy, circular healthcare and remanufacturing in the high integrity sectors. For the last four years Fiona has led the UKRI National Interdisciplinary Circular Economy Hub and has extensive experience of working with organisations from across sectors to identify new approaches to design, innovation, manufacture and business modelling to transform resource use and value creation. She has also led numerous education and executive training programmes to support future leaders in developing the skills and capabilities necessary to drive a circular transition. Fiona has also published a book on the Circular Economy: Handbook of the Circular Economy: Transitions and Transformation.



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