To enable students to learn about the zero-waste approach, resource efficiency, and circular economy principles, and to evaluate sustainable production and consumption models.

Zero waste is a management approach that aims for the efficient use of resources, the prevention of waste generation, and the recovery of generated waste to reintegrate it into the economy. This approach targets the conservation of natural resources, the reduction of environmental pollution, and the support of sustainable development. The circular economy, on the other hand, is an economic system in which products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible, replacing the linear economy model based on the traditional "take-make-dispose" mindset. In this model, economic value is preserved as products are reused, repaired, refurbished, and recycled. Zero waste and the circular economy are complementary concepts. While zero waste aims to reduce waste volume and increase recovery, the circular economy supports sustainable production and consumption by ensuring that resources remain within a continuous loop.