Industrial Ecology and Industry Symbiosis for Environmental Sustainability ― Definitions, Frameworks and Applications

This book opens up a critical dimension to the interdisciplinary field of Industrial Ecology (IE) and one of its four areas - Industrial Symbiosis (IS). Presenting the concept of closed-loop thinking, this timely book explains how industries and societies can achieve environmental sustainability, a necessity for today’s businesses. Providing a critical review of the definitions and developments of both IE and IS, this study establishes their fundamental role in improving environmental sustainability. The author identifies valuable lessons to be learned and presents conceptual frameworks to guide future IE and IS applications. Transforming industrial systems into closed-loop industrial ecosystems dramatically reduces the negative impact of industrial activities on the environment. Therefore, this book is an important read not only for operations management scholars, but also those who are interested in ensuring an environmentally sustainable future.

Xiaohong Li is a senior lecturer in operations management and business modelling at the Sheffield Business School, Sheffield Hallam University, UK. Prior to this, she worked as a research fellow after completing her PhD in 2000. She has published peer-reviewed journal articles in the Journal of Cleaner Production, the International Journal of Production Research, Strategic Outsourcing: an International Journal, and the Journal of Construction Management and Economics. Her current research focuses on environmental sustainability, particularly IE and IS.