About Us

Our introduction

Get to know about us

The Alliance for Research in Circular Economy & Sustainability (ARCES) is a ground-breaking international network of scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and industry specialists united by a shared mission: to foster and promote cutting-edge research within the burgeoning fields of circular economy and sustainability. In a world increasingly threatened by environmental degradation, ARCES represents a forward-thinking consortium committed to finding sustainable solutions for the 21st century and beyond.

ARCES was established to recognize the urgent need to transition from the traditional linear economic model – characterized by a 'take, make, dispose' mentality – towards a circular approach. This approach emphasizes the importance of retaining as much value as possible from resources, creating a system where waste and resource use are minimized, and the reuse and recycling of products and materials are maximized.

At its heart, ARCES is a catalyst for innovative thought and action. It seeks to create an open, collaborative space where knowledge is freely shared, boundaries are pushed, and new ideas are brought to the fore. By uniting a diverse array of stakeholders from across academia, industry, and government, ARCES taps into a rich vein of expertise and experience to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change.

Our Vision

ARCES envisions a future where economic growth and societal well-being are decoupled from resource consumption and environmental degradation. We see a world where circular economy and sustainability principles are universally embraced and integrated into every aspect of our lives - from individual actions to corporate strategies, from local policy-making to international agreements. Our vision is a resilient and regenerative world where prosperity is achieved harmoniously with nature.

Our Mission

The mission of the ARCES is to advance and disseminate knowledge about circular economy and sustainability. We are dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary research, facilitating collaboration between academia, industry, and policy-making, and promoting innovative solutions contributing to the transition towards a circular and sustainable global economy. Our work aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice, empowering stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to make this transition a reality.

Our Cooperation Model

The Alliance for Research in Circular Economy & Sustainability (ARCES) cooperation model is designed to promote and facilitate effective, multidisciplinary collaboration among its members and external partners. Our model is based on the principles of inclusivity, transparency, mutual respect, and shared objectives.

Cross-disciplinary Collaboration

Recognizing that the transition to a circular economy requires insights from diverse fields, ARCES encourages and facilitates collaboration among researchers from different disciplines. Our initiatives, projects, and events are designed to promote cross-disciplinary dialogue and cooperation.

Multi-stakeholder Engagement

ARCES actively seeks engagement with a variety of stakeholders, including academics, industry experts, policymakers, and civil society organizations. We believe that meaningful change can only be achieved when all relevant parties are involved and invested in the process.

Partnerships with Industry and Policy Makers

To ensure that our research is relevant and actionable, we actively pursue partnerships with industry and policymakers. Through these collaborations, we can ensure that our research contributes to practical decision-making and developing policies and strategies that support a circular economy.

Open Communication and Information Sharing

Transparency and open communication are central to our cooperation model. We strive to keep all members and partners informed about our activities, progress, and findings, and we encourage all members to share their ideas, experiences, and insights.

Joint Projects and Funding

ARCES supports and facilitates collaborative research projects among its members and partners. We also work together to secure funding for these projects, leveraging our combined resources, networks, and expertise.

Capacity Building and Training

We recognize that the successful transition to a circular economy requires not only research but also education and training. Therefore, our cooperation model includes initiatives to build capacity among our members, partners, and the wider public.

Recognition and Reward

We value the contributions of all our members and partners, and we believe in acknowledging and rewarding these contributions. This includes providing opportunities for career development, public recognition, and other forms of reward.

1. Membership

Membership is open to any individual or organization engaged in or supporting research in the fields of circular economy and sustainability. All members are expected to abide by the society's rules and regulations and to uphold its vision and mission.

2. Code of Conduct

All members of ARCES must adhere to a code of conduct, which includes demonstrating respect for all members, upholding the principles of academic integrity, and promoting the values of circular economy and sustainability in their work and behavior.

3. Membership Dues

Members are required to pay annual dues, the amount of which is determined by the Board of Directors. Failure to pay dues may result in loss of membership privileges.

4. Board of Directors

The society's Board of Directors will be elected by the members for a term of two years. The Board is responsible for overseeing the society's activities, finances, and strategic planning.

5. Meetings

The society will hold an annual general meeting to report on its activities, financial status, and future plans. Additional meetings and events may be scheduled as needed.

6. Committees

The Board may establish committees as needed to support the society's work. These may include committees for research, events, communications, policy advocacy, etc.

7. Publications and Intellectual Property

Any publications, research, or other intellectual property developed by the society or its members in the course of their work for the society remains the property of the society unless otherwise agreed.

8. Amendments

These rules and regulations may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote at an annual general meeting or a special meeting called for this purpose.

9. Dissolution

In the event of dissolution of the society, any remaining assets after payment of debts will be donated to a non-profit organization with similar aims, as determined by the Board.