Reinterpreting Industrial Ecology

Jensen, P D, Basson, L and Leach, M (2011) Reinterpreting Industrial Ecology Journal of Industrial Ecology, 15 (5). pp. 680-692.

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Abstract

This article argues that industrial ecology has, to date, largely engaged with the ecological sciences at a superficial level, which has both attracted criticism of the field and limited its practical application for sustainable industrial development. On the basis of an analysis of the principle of succession, the role of waste, and the concept of diversity, the article highlights some of the key misconceptions that have resulted from the superficial engagement with the science of ecology. It is argued that industrial ecology should not be seen as a metaphor for industrial development; industrial ecology is the ecology of industry and should be studied as such. There are manifold general principles of ecology that underpin our understanding of the world; however, the physical manifestation and causal effects of these principles are particular to the system and its constituent elements under analysis. It is thus proposed that context-specific observation and analysis of industry are required before theoretical and practical advancement of the field can be achieved.

Item Type:	Article
Divisions :	Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences > Centre for Environmental Strategy
Authors :	Name Email ORCID Jensen, P D Basson, L Leach, M
Date :	19 September 2011
DOI :	10.1111/j.1530-9290.2011.00377.x
Additional Information :	This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Jensen, P.D, , Basson, L., and Leach, M (2011) Reinterpreting Industrial Ecology Journal of Industrial Ecology, 15 (5). 680 - 692. ISSN 1088-1980, which has been published in final form at http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1530-9290.2011.00377.x. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.
Depositing User :	Symplectic Elements
Date Deposited :	09 Dec 2015 15:25
Last Modified :	31 Oct 2017 14:15
URI:	http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/id/eprint/29717

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