Kickstarting Circular Ann Arbor: A project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at the University of Michigan (School for Environment and Sustainability) April 2023 Determining indicators, analyzing current models, and building community support for an equitable & resilient circular economy in Ann Arbor, MI

Abstract

The circular economy moves us away from end-of-life resource management strategies to changes in consumer and producer behavior that reduce inputs to the waste stream from the start. Ann Arbor needs metrics to baseline GHG emissions, develop reduction targets and measure progress in building a circular economy according to Strategy 5 of Ann Arbor’s Net Zero Plan (A2Zero). This project developed a framework to test and implement a set of metrics related to City of Ann Arbor’s circular economy goals of Decarbonization, Resilience, and Equity. Life Cycle thinking was applied throughout the project’s three main parts: 1) develop municipal circular economy metrics, 2) test and implement a set of metrics for community-scale circular economy through three pilot case studies, 3) stimulate the expansion of the circular economy by businesses, consumers, and policy-makers. Key deliverables include a locator map to direct consumers to circular economy businesses, three pilot case study reports, an inventory of existing circular economy activities in Ann Arbor, and community outreach materials such as videos to communicate to businesses, nonprofits, and the community at large about the circular economy and recruit their participation. Project outputs will be used by the City of Ann Arbor to establish funding priorities for Solid Waste service and program development and by local business accelerators to tailor programming to circular economy development.