What is the Circular Economy?

The Circular Economy is a framework for creating long-term economic, environmental, and social value by designing out waste, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. Unlike the traditional linear model of "take, make, use, and dispose," a Circular Economy seeks to create systems that are resilient, restorative, and regenerative.

At Montana State University, Circular Economy encompasses research, teaching, operations, entrepreneurship, workforce development, community engagement, ecosystem stewardship, and innovation. Circular Economy thinking can be applied to food systems, agriculture, manufacturing, water resources, ecosystems, health, infrastructure, business development, and community resilience.

What is the Circular Economy Collaborative at MSU?

The Circular Economy Collaborative is an emerging interdisciplinary effort that connects faculty, staff, students, researchers, practitioners, and community partners interested in advancing Circular Economy principles through teaching, research, operations, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and community engagement.

We are working to identify existing strengths across campus, build new collaborations, and create opportunities that support Montana's communities, economy, and natural resources.

For more information contact jenniferg@montana.edu. 

Circular Economy Collision Event:  October 22nd, 11am-1:30pm

 

The Circular Economy Collision Event brings together faculty, staff, researchers, and practitioners from across campus to discover shared interests, identify collaborators, and explore future opportunities.

The event will feature:

  • Lightning talks
  • Facilitated themed discussions
  • Collaboration-building activities
  • Networking opportunities

Free lunch provided with registration. Location: American Indian Hall

RSVP Here: [RSVP]

Get involved: 

 

Interested in learning more? 

  • Join the Circular Economy mailing list by emailing jenniferg@montana.edu 
  • Participate in future events
  • Explore collaboration opportunities
  • Share your expertise and interests

 

Why does the Circular Economy matter?

Circular Economy can be applied across many areas of the university, including:

  • Food systems and agriculture
 
  • Materials and manufacturing
 
  • Water and ecosystem stewardship
 
  • Entrepreneurship and innovation
 
  • Community and economic development
 
  • Rural and Indigenous partnerships
 
  • Workforce development
 
  • Campus operations and zero waste
 
  • Health and community resilience