Sophie Bernard

The proposal takes a broad look at the phenomenon of fast fashion (FF) and, more specifically, at the destruction of unsold inventory by retailers. It considers the upstream decisions that are responsible for the harmful practices and the lack of circular end-of-life options for unsold goods. The theoretical model that is developed will explore how public policy influences the environmental impact of FF.

The project is in follow-up to the confirmation of the linearity of the apparel sector and additional burden created by FF and reinforces the need to develop a model of mechanisms and incentives that can have a positive impact on decision-making by retailers with respect to their unsold inventories.

The growing interest in the circular economy (CE) as a response to the requirements of sustainable development raises many questions about the transformations CE will bring about, particularly in the labour market.

The research therefore aims to describe, categorize and assess the quality of core circular jobs in SEEs.

There are two types of circular jobs: core jobs and enabling jobs. This study focuses on core jobs, which sustain material loops and constitute the pillars of the CE. It is essential to understand their characteristics and ensure their quality upstream of eventual mutations. For that reason, the research will also consider the social and solidarity economy, which brings together organizations and businesses whose objective is to promote social well-being.

In Canada in 2016, only 9% of plastic was recycled, with packaging accounting for 47% of all plastic waste. There are several reasons why, including the operational limitations of facilities and recycling that requires selective separation and uncontaminated containers. In an effort to address the issue, the project aims to lead a pan-Canadian study on the levers of change for a transition to a zero-waste product offering.

The project’s innovation lies in its knowledge mobilization method, which raises awareness through art. Ten artists (writers, musicians, painters, etc.) will analyze the qualitative and quantitative data from the research and provide their interpretations in plain language. This co-creation approach cannot be categorized, since the results extend beyond standard environmental science theories. It is inspired by assumptions in art-based methodologies, sociological art and ecological art involving social interventions that actively engage communities.

The works will be presented in public spaces to provide avenues for understanding and discussion on ecology for audiences who are less familiar with the scientific and artistic communities.

As the electrification of devices intensifies, the cumulative global manufacturing of lithium ion (Li-ion) battery cells could increase by fivefold by 2030. At the end of their service life, the batteries may be recovered or become toxic waste. North America therefore has a unique opportunity to secure and build a resilient supply chain based on circular principles. The region has the potential to play a leadership role in the extraction, manufacturing and recovery of critical minerals for Li-ion batteries, including rare minerals and those in short supply (e.g., lithium).

As the geopolitics of Li-ion batteries emerge, the project aims to determine a strategic plan for a regional supply system based on the circular economy. More specifically, it seeks to:

1. Estimate the strengths, opportunities, vulnerabilities and risks of the current Li-ion battery supply chain in North America and among its international suppliers.
2. Conceptualize and map the regional Li-ion battery infrastructure.
3. Model the impact of implementing circular strategies.
4. Identify investment opportunities.

While there is a myriad of ecolabels, most in the tourism sector lack rigor, transparency and standardization. This project therefore aims to study how modularity and eco-efficiency can contribute to the development of measurable ecolabels and circular tourism.

Firstly, the research will operationalize a multidimensional conceptual model using scientific assessment tools to identify opportunities for source reduction as a circular strategy. The concept of modularity seeks to break down complex systems into modules to provide a framework to assess their composition and interdependencies. The approach will support a performance analysis of the tourism system in all its complexity. A case study of a Québec outfitter will make it possible to apply the model and characterize activities to collect primary and secondary data to explore eco-efficient alternatives.

Secondly, the project will develop eco-efficiency indicators based on the principles of modularity by assimilating the carrying capacities in tourism. Following a literature review of load capacities, multicriteria analysis will be used to evaluate the impacts of the scenarios.

Finally, the third objective is to create a framework and guide to implement a type III ecolabel in the tourism sector.