Ecología Industrial: Una disciplina para el Desarrollo Sostenible en las industrias

Abstract

This work presents a literature review about the main theoretical issues involved in Industrial Ecology (IE): a discipline whose dynamics is based on an analogy between industry and natural systems. As such, it allows the incorporation of environmental and social criteria in the different design stages of products, processes and services, in order to fulfil market needs without affecting their economic and technical performance. The variety of strategies and tools supporting this discipline comes from the practical interest it has gained in recent years. The consistent and methodical application of Industrial Ecology helps to achieve multiple benefits, including the sustainability in product design and industrial processes.