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As of 1 November 2025, Simona Negro will be appointed professor of Circular Societies, with a focus on the transition from a linear to a circular society. With this step, she will build on her research into accelerating sustainable transitions and contribute to strengthening an important strategic theme at Utrecht ľ�ϸ���Ӱ��.

‘Circular societies’ are more than just circular economy. Economic resilience, agriculture, food, materials, biodiversity, the environment and health are all interconnected. How can we assign value to materials in new ways? How do we handle products and materials, and how can we use them longer and more effectively? “This requires new business models for companies, but this also means that consumers need to rethink their relationships with the things they own,” says Simona Negro.

In a circular society, economic activities are embedded within a broader socio-ecological system that recognises the interconnections between ecological, economic and social outcomes – including the need for a just transition. This calls for interdisciplinary collaboration, combining insights from the natural and social sciences at the system, technology and actor levels to better understand and guide this transformation.

It is essential to monitor and evaluate the direction, impact and pace of the transition, so that stakeholders can act effectively, collaborate more closely and accelerate progress.

‘Circular societies’ is more than just a circular economy

Simona Negro focuses on integrating different disciplines and fostering knowledge exchange between science, citizens, businesses and policymakers. The transition to a circular economy requires bold and innovative solutions that go beyond purely technological or isolated initiatives. A circular economy can only be truly successful when it becomes part of a broader transition to a circular society. 

“Shared visions of a circular society help different actors to work together more effectively on inclusive and equitable solutions that focus on the well-being of people and nature. By conducting research projects together with social partners, and through education and training courses for professionals, we create knowledge that is better aligned with current social and policy challenges.”

Annemarie van Wezel, Dean of the Faculty of Geosciences: “This chair is a valuable addition to the expertise within Geosciences in the field of a circular society. The connection between technological challenges and solutions, and innovation and transition research in particular, makes this chair an important asset.”

The chair fits seamlessly with Utrecht ľ�ϸ���Ӱ��'s strategic themes Pathways to Sustainability and Institutions for Open Societies, and the community Towards a Circular Economy and Society.