Circular Economies

The third pillar of CERI is Circular Economies - This strategic initiative will provide technical assistance to accelerate the growth of circular economy businesses in the State of Michigan. This initiative will identify economic recovery efforts and other strategic resources to assist individuals, businesses, and communities to navigate coronavirus-related resources, support feasibility studies, market research, economic impact surveys, and other analysis that support the development of businesses and services that maximize the efficient use of local/regional supply chains in specific markets.

Current Projects


Rural and Small Community Recycling and Waste Reduction

Led by Terry Link, Greater Laingsburg Recyclers and Bill Stough, Sustainability Research Group

This Circular Economies Pillar research project is looking at viable options for addressing waste reduction in small and rural communities, while strengthening the markets for both profit, nonprofit and community owned enterprises within the community. The project includes a plan to develop potential models that can be adopted by communities across the state to reduce landfill waste, while at the same time spurring partnerships across local regional entities.