The Innovation Alliance Circular Design (CiD) is reshaping how we connect design with circularity and urban transformation. By setting new benchmarks in design thinking, CiD aims to drive a shift toward carbon-neutral cities, reimagining urban spaces, architecture, and product and service design through the lens of the circular economy. A cornerstone of this initiative is the innovative use of flipped classrooms, offering participants an immersive blend of theory and practice.

These flipped classrooms empower learners to tackle real-world challenges, equipping them with the tools to lead sustainable transformations in their respective fields. Here’s a closer look at the three transformative modules offered as part of the CiD academic programme:

1. Circular Urbanism: Designing Climate-Neutral Cities

This module dives deep into the integration of circular economy principles within urban planning. It challenges participants to rethink the role of urban spaces in achieving sustainability goals. Key topics include:

  • The Role of Buildings and Urban Spaces: Understanding how structures can support circularity.
  • Strategies for Circular City-Making: Exploring innovative urban planning methods.
  • Cultural and Creative Perspectives: Highlighting the importance of arts and culture in urban design.

By focusing on the “material city” and its communities, this module emphasizes the dynamic relationship between urban spaces and societal well-being, advocating for a new era of urban design.

2. Fabrication and Novel Methodologies: Advancing Bio-Based Innovation

This module focuses on the cutting-edge realm of bio-based materials and sustainable fabrication, highlighting how these innovations can revolutionize traditional manufacturing. Participants will explore:

  • Integrating Bio-Based Materials: Techniques for using sustainable materials with existing machinery.
  • Economic and Governance Aspects: Navigating the financial and regulatory landscape of bio-innovation.
  • Scaling Challenges and Opportunities: Addressing the hurdles and potential in expanding bio-based fabrication.

Through this module, participants gain insights into creating highly customized, eco-friendly products, leveraging open-source tools to foster inclusivity and innovation.

Image credit: Ottan

3. Circular Economy and Design: From Theory to Practice

This module provides a comprehensive guide to transitioning from a linear to a circular economy, focusing on practical applications in design. Participants will learn about:

  • Transforming Supply Chains: Redesigning processes to minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency.
  • Service Design in Circularity: Rethinking how services can support sustainable outcomes.
  • Community Engagement and Storytelling: Using narratives to drive value and change.

With real-world case studies, this module demonstrates how circular design can not only reduce waste but also regenerate natural systems, paving the way for a more inclusive and resilient economy.

Source: Allikas:WRAP (n.d.) WRAP and the Circular Economy

The CiD flipped classroom modules offer a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge concepts in circular design and sustainability. By blending theory with hands-on experience, these modules prepare participants to be leaders in the movement toward a more sustainable and circular cities. Whether you’re an urban planner, designer, or innovator, CiD’s approach equips you with the knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact.