The discipline of industrial ecology (IE) dictates that industrial systems should be modeled after natural ecosystems. Industrial ecology studies material, water, and energy flows in order maximize efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
Industrial ecology is a highly multi-disciplinary field that blends engineering, business, and the social sciences. It uses systems thinking and modeling to lead the way to innovation and improvement. Effective solutions emerge from a better understanding of joins between biological, technical and human systems. Our research staff applies IE to business models, communities, products and industries. Areas of expertise include: life cycle assessments , supply chain analysis , eco-industrial development, carbon footprinting and sustainable product packaging.