The need to reduce environmental impact and its associated climate changes effects is shifting the manufacturing sector towards a Net Zero paradigm, where decarbonisation strategies based on the adoption of low-carbon solutions (e.g. raw materials, processes), alternative energy sources or circular economy models, are key to achieve the Net Zero targets. This module introduces the key concepts that are required to understand the fundamentals, advantages and challenges of this new Net Zero manufacturing paradigm within the process and related industries.
Key aspects of systems thinking applied to the reformulation of structured products with lower carbon footprint, naturally derived feedstocks and their impact on manufacturing and supply chain, including aspects related to product quality control by linking process parameters to product quality will be introduced. Principles will be exemplified through case studies supplied by relevant industrial partners in areas like personal care, catalysts, pharma or additives in surface coatings.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Recognise the main drivers for Net Zero.
Evaluate the key concepts behind this emerging manufacturing paradigm.
Apply a system thinking approach to assess formulated process/product and/or reformulation design scenarios
Appraise the benefits and challenges related to Net Zero strategies (individually and in combination).
