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Glass manufacturing is a high-volume process, during which large substance quantities are transformed into commercial products, and significant amounts of non-renewable resources and energy (i.e., thermal fuels and electrical power) are consumed. The main purpose of this study is to give a critical explanation of the performance of the Italian container glass industry from the perspective of cullet being recycled, to outline the opportunities for transition towards circular business models that stimulate innovation in new sectors based on reverse-cycle activities for recycling. In 2015, disparate performances have been achieved as regards the container glass recycling rate in northern, central, and southern Italy, accounting for around 73%, 64%, and 55%, respectively. In fact, only northern Italy is in line with European targets, as by 2025 it will only need to increase its current performance by two percentage points, unlike central and southern Italy that will have to increase performance by, respectively, 11% and 20%. This shows a need to improve the efficiency of municipal waste collection systems in central and southern Italy, where undifferentiated waste still holds appreciable amounts of glass. Consequently, we propose several improvement channels, from the revision of waste legislation to the re-engineering of waste management supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cement manufacturing is a high volume process, with large quantities of substances turned into commercial products, in the process consuming non-renewable resources and energy. It is one of the most material and energy-intensive industrial processes, as well as being CO 2 emissions-intensive. The latter is due in large part to the production of clinker, the key component in cement. Over the last decades, the European cement industry has applied a variety of solutions for improving environmental performance and cost competitiveness. The co-processing of alternative raw materials and fuels, in particular, has played a pivotal role, producing a triple win: emissions reductions, decreases in the extraction of natural resources and fossil fuels, and enhancement of waste management operations. This paper outlines characteristics of the European cement industry, in order to pinpoint trends and performance improvements, and to assess the suitability of sustainability routes adopted and programmes launched. Finally, the paper compares the experiences of the industry in Italy and Germany, the two most important European manufacturers of cement, evaluating their different industrial approaches with regard to the use of alternative raw materials and fuels and improvements in resource efficiency. Results indicate the need for a collaborative approach between the business community, policy makers, and institutions, in order to embrace sustainability as a business imperative, adopting models that facilitate systemic change towards circular economy goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent trends in the international photovoltaic (PV) sector indicate strong growth in terms of capacity and production, which is positively influencing the process of energy system decarbonisation. The aim of this review was to promote productive paradigms for a ‘closed cycle’ economy based on the enhancement of resource efficiency and the reduction of waste. To this end, the articulate framework for the management of end-of-life PV panels was analysed, highlighting strengths and weaknesses from the perspective of transitioning towards a circular economy. The conceptual framework is based on a comprehensive review and analysis of relevant literature to describe the main technological and environmental implications associated with PV energy production. Consequently, this paper highlights the most important critical elements, potential opportunities, and limitations deriving from the technological, managerial and organisational aspects of enhancing recovery and recycling rates. The review and the proposed framework might be useful for further research on this important yet complex topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]