From Linear to Circular: AI’s Role in Shaping the Future of Consumption

The shift to a circular economy is becoming increasingly vital as we face growing environmental challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and mounting waste. AI could help to bridge the gap between intention and action, making circular consumption more accessible and embedded in everyday practices. In this CXI Masterclass, we explore the power

The shift to a circular economy and consumption is becoming increasingly vital as we face growing environmental challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and mounting waste. AI could help to bridge the gap between intention and action, making circular consumption more accessible and embedded in everyday practices. In this CXI Masterclass, we explore the powerful role that AI can play in facilitating circular consumption. 

Our first speaker, Rakesh Bandipelli (Your Product Passport) will provide insight into how organisations are taking a circular approach through innovative practices like modular product design, take-back schemes, and subscription services, in a way that blends profitability with sustainability. Our second speaker, Professor Sean Sands (Swinburne) will present research insights from 20 in-depth consumer interviews, focusing on how AI can help overcome barriers to circular consumption through personalising engagement, improving accessibility, and normalising sustainable choices. Finally, Associate Professor Carla Ferraro (Swinburne) will outline best practices for deploying AI in circular initiatives, guiding consumers toward product repairs, offering creative upcycling ideas, and helping with sustainable disposal while also overcoming trust issues, technical complexity, and inclusivity.  

We will close with panel discussion and audience questions. 

Join us as we explore how AI can transform circular consumption into a mainstream reality, empowering consumers and driving meaningful change. 

• Date: Friday, December 13, 2024  
• Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM  
• Hosted by: Dr. Vlad Demsar, Co-Director of the Customer Experience and Insight (CXI) Research Group  
• Presenters: Rakesh Bandipelli Co-Founder Your Product Passport, Professor Sean Sands, Associate Professor Carla Ferraro Swinburne University of Technology 
• Zoom link: https://swinburne.zoom.us/j/84938013497 

 Who Should Attend  

This event is ideal for anyone passionate about how AI can revolutionize circular consumption and make it a mainstream reality. It’s particularly relevant for:   

• Sustainability Professionals   
• Business Leaders & Entrepreneurs   
• Tech Innovators & AI Enthusiasts   
• Academics & Researchers   
• Policymakers & Regulators   
• Students & Lifelong Learners   

Meet The Presenters  

Rakesh Bandipelli Co-Founder Your Product Passport. Rakesh is the Co-Founder of Your Product Passport and a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in supply chain management. With a Master's Degree in Supply Chain Management and ERP Systems from Victoria University, Rakesh also holds a Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management and a Diploma in Logistics and Sustainability.   Rakesh is passionate about leveraging technology to simplify supply chain processes and drive continuous improvement. Throughout his career, he has gained expertise across various roles in the industry, earning a reputation as an influential leader, problem solver, and collaborative team player. His proactive attitude has been instrumental in building efficient teams, fostering strong business relationships, and delivering impactful outcomes.   Rakesh's innovative approach and dedication to sustainability and supply chain improvement continue to make him a respected figure in the field.   

Prof. Sean Sands Associate Dean (Research) Swinburne University  of Technology. Sean is Professor of Marketing and Associate Dean (Research) in the School of Business, Law and Entrepreneurship at Swinburne University of Technology. He is Associate Editor at the Journal of Advertising Research and International Journal of Advertising and is on the Editorial Review Board for the Journal of Advertising. Sean's research is broadly focused on how digital and physical experience affects marketing theory and practice, which he has presented at major international conferences. He is a prior advisory board member to the Starlight Children's Foundation and has spent two decades consulting to industry in Australia and New Zealand at firms including TNS, Chant Link & Associates, and The General Store.  

Assoc Prof. Carla Ferraro, CXI Co-Director, Swinburne University of Technology. Carla is Associate Professor of Marketing, Academic Director of Student Experience, and Co-Director of the CXI Research Group in the School of Business, Law and Entrepreneurship at Swinburne University of Technology. Carla has extensive commercial and academic research expertise in the areas of services marketing, consumer behaviour and psychology, and customer experience. Carla works with a wide range of business, Government, and non-profit organisations across these areas, with outcomes including impactful industry-partnered research, top-tier journal publications, and innovations in educating the next generation of marketers.   

Q&A  Following the presentation, CXI Co-Director Dr. Vlad Demsar will lead an interactive Q&A discussion to provide an opportunity for audience members to engage directly.  

Acknowledgement & Understanding  By registering for this event, you acknowledge and give consent to the audio and video recording of the session and your email details being added to the CXI database. If you do not consent, please let the event organiser know.