Research axis
RRECQ scientific program is based on a cross-disciplinary approach that fosters connections and synergies among four key areas.
Since 2021, the RRECQ has been working to strengthen Quebec’s capacity to implement circularity strategies within industrial sectors and at the regional level, while supporting these strategies with coherent government policies, with a view to achieving a sustainable transition for society.
The Network’s scientific program supports this mission while generating knowledge that can be transferred to decision-makers, industry stakeholders, and civil society. This program is divided into four areas, and the synergies between these areas guide research priorities to foster a holistic understanding of the circular economy.
Value, transitions, and change management
Co-chair: Rafael Ziegler, HEC
Co-lead: Myriam Ertz, UQAC
Axis 1 focuses on the processes and mechanisms of societal change and the transition to a circular economy. It is structured around four objectives: conceptual shifts, frameworks, and the values of circularity; aligning education, research, skills, and labor market needs; analyzing mechanisms of engagement, behavior, and citizen mobilization; and monitoring and ensuring the effective implementation of circular economy roadmaps.
Organizational practices and progress indicators
Co-chair: Marc Journeault, Université Laval
Co-lead: Cécile Fonrouge, UQTR
The transition to a circular economy requires profound changes in production, consumption, and resource management. Although the principles of circularity are widely recognized, their implementation remains fragmented and limited to isolated initiatives, which reduces their overall impact and the synergies among stakeholders. Furthermore, the lack of reliable tools to measure, monitor, and evaluate circular performance hinders decision-making and coordination.
To address these challenges, axis 2 has two objectives: to develop circular practices and business models, and to create measurement and monitoring tools to promote a systemic and collaborative approach.
Resources and products sustainability
Co-chair: Andrew Henderson, ÉTS
Co-lead: Ben Amor, Université de Sherbrooke
The conservation of natural resources and the closure of material cycles are cornerstones of the circular economy. However, implementing them at the regional level remains a challenge due to the diversity of stakeholders, material flows, and constraints.
Axis 3 aims first to identify local flows and constraints and to strengthen stakeholders’ capacity to adopt appropriate models. It then seeks to develop integrated approaches and tools to implement circular strategies that are consistent with local challenges.
Policy levers and public governance
Co-chair: Sophie Bernard, Polytechnique Montréal
Co-lead: Fanny Tremblay-Racicot, ENAP
Axis 4 analyzes the governance structures and processes that influence the transition to a circular economy, examining the role of stakeholders, public policies, and institutional decisions.
It explores social dynamics, networks of stakeholders, and the impact of decisions on society, while comparing international best practices with the realities in Canada and Quebec. Its three objectives focus on governance practices, the evolution of decision-making processes, and the social impacts of circular economy initiatives.
