Her thesis The effect of the circular economy on the financial performance of ICT companies, was chosen from 6 theses nominated for the prize. 

Circular economy and ICT

Her thesis topic explores how ICT companies can take 4 circular economy (CE) related measures that could potentially contribute to a firm’s financial performance. The measures identified by Van Es are:

• increasing energy efficiency
• increasing water efficiency
• perceiving waste as valuable
• and decreasing emissions

All of these CE economy measures could be introduced into ICT business operations. The recommended measures are also in line with ASF’s research themes: (sustainable economy, sustainable society and sustainable planet).

ASF board thesis report

When assessing the thesis, the ASF board found the research was clearly motivated and remarkably well written. The thesis presented clear arguments in a logically consistent manner. The board particularly liked the critical way Van Es addressed claims stating the ICT sector can be part of a solution towards a more sustainable economy. There was also praise for the excellent empirical analysis showing the varying effects of CE on the financial performance of ICT companies. These findings could have an impact on policy.

The ASF board congratulates Maxime van Es and her supervisor Dr Silvia Blasi on their achievement. As part of the thesis prize, they will also receive a cash award of 2000 euro (1,500 for the student and 500 for the supervisor).

About ASF

A Sustainable Future builds upon sustainability research knowledge and expertise at the Amsterdam School of Economics (ASE) and the Amsterdam Business School (ABS). The platform aims to promote business and economics scholarship to help meet pressing environmental and sustainable challenges facing society.