Insights and trends of resources and waste in the total environment: applications to natural, industrial, and energy systems

Abstract

The environment is made up of interconnected dynamic systems that can be altered by human activities. It is also a source of resources and a waste sink. Effective management of resources and waste, developed by EU policies, supports the transition to a regenerative economy. The main objective of this thesis is to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the insights and trends related to resources and waste, considering their interactions within the total environment. Based on the lessons learned from previous and current approaches, existing strategies are analyzed with the aim of identifying areas for improvement and consolidating sustainable practices through a multidisciplinary approach that includes natural, industrial, and energy systems. Sustainable techniques are applied and and different tools and approaches are used and analysed to generate knowledge that supports policy development and contributes to the effective planning and management of these systems.