Vinnare av Lavendlas stipendium för hållbarhet 2024

Lavendla har beslutat att tilldela Lavendlas Stipendium för hållbarhet på 10 000 kr till Isabel Freitas för hennes inspirerande arbete ”Evaluating Circular Economy Strategies for Plastics Reduction in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Industry”.

Vi var såklart nyfikna på vem personen var bakom arbetet så här kommer en kort vinnarintervju:

Hi Isabel! Tell us a little bit more about you?

Hi! My name is Isabel Freitas, and I am the author of the master’s thesis titled ”Evaluating Circular Economy Strategies for Plastics Reduction in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Industry”. I’m originally from Portugal, and after completing my bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management at the University of Porto, I decided to explore new opportunities abroad, which led me to Stockholm for my master’s studies at KTH. It was during my master’s degree in Industrial Management that I became increasingly interested not only in finance but also in sustainability. Now, I work as a consultant at KPMG, where I focus on the finance field, applying my skills to contribute to impactful projects. Outside of work, I enjoy playing padel and swimming and love exploring the beauty of Stockholm through long walks.

Briefly describe your research in your own words

My research focused on how companies in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry can reduce plastic waste by adopting circular economy strategies. Instead of plastic being used one time and thrown away, these strategies aim to keep materials in use for as long as possible—through better product design, recycling, and innovative packaging solutions. I analyzed different approaches, evaluating how practical they are and what impact they have on society. The study also highlighted key challenges, like making packaging both recyclable and functional, ensuring supply chains can handle new materials, and balancing costs with long-term sustainability benefits.

Why is research in this area so important?

This type of research is very important because the FMCG industry plays a major role in plastic pollution, which poses severe environmental challenges. These severe environmental problems include greenhouse gas emissions, depletion of non-renewable resources, ongoing pollution of natural habitats, the spread of microplastics throughout ecosystems, and endangerment of marine life. By identifying ways to reduce plastic waste and evaluating their feasibility and social impact, we can help companies contribute to a more sustainable future, benefiting both the environment and society.

Is it something you want to continue researching/working on?

Yes, definitely! Sustainability is something I’m very passionate about, and I continuously make an effort to stay informed on the latest developments in this field. I focus not only on plastic pollution in the FMCG industry but also on plastic pollution as a broader issue. Additionally, I try to incorporate sustainable practices into my daily life as much as possible, always trying to make choices that contribute to a more sustainable world.

What are the biggest challenges in the field?

Some major challenges include the complexity of redesigning packaging to be more sustainable, ensuring transparency in the supply chain, and managing disruptions that arise in logistics. Additionally, changing consumer behavior and meeting regulatory standards can be difficult.

What do you think will happen in the field in the next 10 years?

Over the next decade, I expect that technological innovations will drive more sustainable practices in the FMCG industry. Companies will likely increase collaboration with stakeholders to develop effective strategies and adhere to stricter regulatory requirements that will promote a circular economy.

How does it feel to win the scholarship?

Winning the scholarship is incredibly rewarding and highlights the importance of this type of research. I believe initiatives like this are very valuable as they provide incentives to continue developing solutions that can help make companies more sustainable.

What will you do with the money?

I plan to use the money to celebrate this achievement with family and friends and take some time to travel.

With that said we wish good luck in your future endeavours to Isabel!

Read Isabel thesis here :
Evaluating Circular Economy Strategies for Plastics Reduction in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Industry