Project module Operations Management: Plastics – Global Challenges and Innovative Solutions
SoSe 2024
Content and aim of the project module
The global plastic pollution crisis poses one of the most environmental challenges of our time. Hence, there is a need for innovative solutions such as biodegradable materials, enhanced recycling technologies, and new circular economy models. Against this background, the students should in this Project Module
• analyze the scope and scale of plastic pollution globally,
• review current policies, practices, and technological advancements aimed at mitigating plastic pollution,
• identify and evaluate potential innovative and sustainable solutions to plastic pollution,
• analyze the role of new business models/circular economy models,
• and investigate solutions for implementing these solutions effectively at various scales (local, national, and global).
Among others, the following methodologies could be used by the students:
• Literature Review: Investigate the scale and impact of plastic pollution globally, and explore environmental, social, and economic impacts by reviewing existing studies, including scientific articles, policy documents, and reports from international organizations.
• Case Studies Analysis: Select and analyze various case studies where innovative solutions have been implemented to tackle plastic pollution, regarding their success, scalability, and replicability.
• Data Analysis: Utilize qualitative and quantitative data analysis tools to synthesize findings from literature, case studies, and interviews. Identify and propose innovative and sustainable solutions, focusing on reduction, management, and recycling of plastics.
• (Social) Network Analysis: Examine the structure of connections between nodes in a network, revealing insights into patterns, influential entities, and the overall dynamics of the system.
• Material Flow Analysis: Quantify the flows and stocks of materials within a system to provide crucial insights into resource usage, environmental impacts, and opportunities for sustainability improvements.
• Expert Interviews: Conduct structured interviews with experts in the field (different sectors/industries) to gain insights into specific challenges and potential solutions.
• Sustainability Assessment: Evaluate potential solutions based on sustainability criteria, including environmental impact, economic viability, and social equity.
Participants and Requirements
- Participants : Master BWL, Master WiWi, Master Wirt.-Ing.
- Max. Number of participants : 20
- Teaching language : English
- Is previous knowledge required? None
- [Specializations: ORM, Sustainability and Corporations]
Organizational Information
- 10 CP
- Teaching language : English
- Sommer term
- Group Work (65%), Presentations (35%)
Ansprechpartner