Multi-tool methodology to evaluate action levers to close the loop on critical materials – Application to precious metals used in catalytic converters

摘要: Abstract Implementing circular economy (CE) practices can lead to both environmental savings and competitive advantages for companies. While transitioning from a linear production system closed-loop is not straightforward, adequate methodology tools support industrialists in this sustainable shift. This paper proposes multi-tool approach systematically identify, classify, assess the contribution of influence parameters action levers close loop on products key materials. Industrial ecology model-based engineering are combined ensure systemic analysis evaluation. The developed combines, stepwise methodology, material flow analysis, fuzzy cognitive mapping, structural dynamics, model qualify impact potential promising CE strategies. To illustrate each step case study carried out real-world industrial product: catalytic converter, which contains non-negligible amount platinum, considered as critical raw by European Commission. New insights platinum converters thus provided discussed. Notably, connections between identified highlighted, including regulations limit number exports, mandatory recycling reuse rate, end-users behaviors, based regulatory constraints financial motivations, price fluctuation. These findings could help generate fine-tune an ad hoc dynamics evaluate through more specific scenarios. For instance, broader implication original equipment manufacturer evaluation strategies, simulation selected circularity sustainability performance their value chain. Ultimately, it provide quantitative relevant prospective questions, such as, what if take-back scheme proposed augment collection rate given percentage, or design modified easy disassembly.