Case: Stop being so toxic! 

The shift from waste-based to resource-based plants requires a detoxification perspective due to unsustainable resource extraction practices since the Industrial Revolution. Despite efforts to address this issue, such as the OECD's polluter pays principle and the EU's Eighth Environment Action Program, material extraction remains high in Europe, exceeding sustainable levels. Without significant intervention, future projections indicate an increase in material demand, highlighting the urgent need for strategies to reduce consumption and transition to more sustainable practices. 

The traditional waste hierarchy, developed in 1979, has been a cornerstone in waste management but fails to address the complexities of resource management in today's world. It overlooks the need for detoxification processes, quality standards, and resource storage for future use. As a result, adhering strictly to this hierarchy has led to resource depletion, environmental pollution, and the burden of these issues being passed onto future generations. However, there's a growing recognition of the need for a new approach that integrates detoxification principles into resource management, emphasizes resource utilization and quality, and considers the well-being of future generations. 

At Ragn-Sells, we have recognised the pressing need for action in the realm of waste management. That's why we have chosen "detoxification" as the central theme for our case competition. Our aim is to inspire innovative solutions that tackle these challenges head-on.

Therefore, we extend our invitation to students to explore and address issues within the theme of "detoxification" and present their innovative approaches to addressing these challenges.  

The winner will be awarded 25,000 SEK and will have the opportunity to present their case at "Framtidsdagen" on October 18.

Explore further about the world's resource challenges here and learn about Ragn-Sells' efforts to tackle these issues here.