Other government information and services: www.belgium.be

FOD Economie
Do the test

Use cases

Circular Innovation: The Role of AI in SMEs

Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking the world by storm. Meanwhile the circular economy also benefits from the increasing strength and growing potential of AI. By deploying smart systems and algorithms, companies can use raw materials more efficiently, develop innovative and sustainable solutions and significantly reduce waste. But how does that translate in terms of impact on your business? Let’s explore how AI is boosting the circular economy — and how SMEs can ride this wave of innovation.

  • All sectors
  • Starter
Ai kmo

The Role of AI in the Circular Transition

AI helps companies to operate more efficiently and in a more sustainable manner. This is already the case in four key areas.

  • Smarter material flows: AI analyses gigantic data volumes and accurately predicts which (raw) materials are required, preventing overproduction and unnecessary waste.
  • Tailored circular design: Machine learning helps companies design products that last longer, are easier to fix and can be more efficiently recycled.
  • New earning models: From product-as-a-service to smart lease constructions, AI makes circular business models more efficient, among others through demand forecasting and preventive maintenance.
  • Recycling 2.0: AI upgrades sorting systems, identifies reusable components and automates dismantling processes, ensuring materials remain part of the chain for as long as possible.

What Are the Benefits of AI?

Companies that smartly integrate AI into their circular strategy reap considerable benefits:

  • Fewer costs, more profits: AI-driven automation reduces waste and cuts operational costs.
  • Innovation as a competitive advantage: New AI-driven products and services give companies a competitive edge in their industry.
  • Sustainability without compromise: A smart circular approach not just means less environmental impact but also boosts your brand image and customer trust.

Opportunities for SMESmall and medium-sized enterprisess in the IT sector

AI unlocks huge growth potential for SMEs in the IT sector. They can develop AI solutions that help other companies fine-tune and accelerate their circular strategy. Examples include:

  • Predictive analysis: Tools that recognise trends and patterns and help businesses take strategic decisions.
  • Smart marketing: AI-driven personalisation enhances the impact of sustainable products and services.
  • 24/7 support: AI chatbots and virtual assistants create efficient and sustainable customer service solutions.

The Future is Circular and Smart

AI is no longer a distant pipe dream. It is a game changer that is already strengthening the circular economyThe circular economy is a restorative and regenerative economy. By maintaining the value of the products, materials and resources in the economy through smart product design, repurposing and/or shared use of products, it reduces the extraction of natural resources by using resources already present in the economy.. For SMEs this doesn’t just mean fresh challenges but, more importantly, opportunities to contribute to a more sustainable world. The smart combination of AI and circular principles helps us build a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.

You might also be interested in