Giang T.C. Tran, Thang Le Dinh, François Labelle, Rahma Chouchane

Achieving a sustainable future requires a fundamental shift in how to manage resources, moving towards the circular economy (CE). This shift necessitates a comprehensive framework, encompassing the 10Rs approach, which can be categorized as Smarter product use and manufacture (Refuse, Rethink, Reduce), Extend lifespan of product and its parts (Reuse, Repair, Refurbish, Remanufacture, Repurpose), and Useful application of materials (Recycle, Recover). Intelligent systems, including intelligent applications and intelligent services that can learn and adapt from experience, offer a powerful tool for optimizing resource management and driving the transition to a CE. This systematic review examines the crucial role of intelligent systems in strengthening resource management towards a more sustainable future. The study examines the current literature to highlight the interconnection of these emerging research areas and provide new insights. Findings reveal the enormous potential of intelligent systems, particularly their integration with technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things, and blockchain, to accelerate the transition to a truly CE. This study is an invaluable resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers looking to harness the potential of intelligent systems to drive the smart transition toward the CE.

Read more

Le Tran Duc, François Labelle, Thang Le Dinh

The circular economy (CE) has emerged as a significant framework for fostering sustainable development. This systematic literature review paints a broad picture of CE principles. From this more global picture, the North American perspective helps clarify certain aspects that are affected by specific institutional contexts. By examining a wide range of organizational contexts, this study provides a detailed overview of the integration of CE practices. It explores the various drivers and barriers to CE adoption, highlighting the role of technological, policy, financial, cultural and social factors. The review also delves into sector-specific strategies and practices, illustrating the unique approaches to CE in different industries and their impact on organizational performance across economic, environmental and social dimensions. Through this comprehensive analysis, the research sheds light on the diverse pathways organizations are taking toward integrating CE principles. The findings offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that this sustainable economic model presents, contributing to a deeper understanding of CE’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable development within the organizational sphere. Additionally, the study proposes directions for future research, policy development and the enhancement of practices as the field continues to evolve.

Kadia-Georges, Aka, François, Labelle

Founded in 1994, Tissus Innovants (TI) is a manufacturer of fabrics for chairs, screens (panels used to compartmentalize workstations), and hospital curtains for the furniture market. This SME with 200 employees operates in the highly competitive textile industry. It is the largest manufacturer in Canada and ranks fourth in North America. It is a North American leader in the design and manufacture of innovative and ecological fabrics. It produces 3 to 5 million m² of fabric per year. TI’s main innovation lies in the design and manufacture of “eco-smart” fabrics. These are designed to be used, recovered, and reprocessed efficiently and safely throughout multiple life cycles, making them the first technically optimized textile. These high-performance fabrics have generated 20% annual growth for several years. TI now offers the contract furniture market a range of innovative and sustainable products.

Kadia-Georges, Aka, François, Labelle

Recognized as one of Quebec’s top 5 sustainable development companies, the Montreal-based firm SCDI is an SME providing consulting services in industrial and exhibition design. In other words, they design objects that their clients then have manufactured. Established for 8 years, SCDI has been a leader in sustainable development (SD) from the outset. They chose to firmly commit to SD because they are convinced that, as an SME, they can be economically profitable while also being ecologically and socially responsible. This SME of 6 employees has maintained a website dedicated to SD since 2002. According to its president, “At SCDI, we have believed in sustainable development for a long time.”