Raphael Schranz

Gold

Certified Circular Economy Specialist

Vienna, Austria

English, German

More than €200 / hour

As a Certified Circular Economy Specialist, I recently had the privilege of leading a comprehensive Scope 1-3 assessment for a leading Czech textile company. This project was a testament to the power of integrating circular economy principles and robust sustainability strategies. Here's a snapshot of the impactful work we did: 🔍 Strategic Data Collection & Supplier Engagement: Together with the company we gathered extensive data on direct, indirect, and value chain emissions, ensuring transparency and accuracy. Engaging with suppliers through meetings and workshops thereby leading to fostered sustainable practices and enhanced data reporting. 🛠 Provision of ESG Tools & Resources: Advanced tools were implemented for real-time monitoring and reporting of environmental and social metrics. Comprehensive training sessions empowered the team to effectively utilize these tools, driving continuous improvement. 🌱 Impact & Circular Economy Assessment: Our thorough evaluations identified key sustainability gaps and opportunities. We recommended improvements in product design, take-back schemes, and closed-loop supply chains, steering the company towards a circular economy. 📈 Strategic Roadmap Development: A detailed sustainability roadmap was developed, outlining clear goals, actionable steps, and KPIs. From adopting renewable energy to increasing recycled material usage, this roadmap is guiding the company towards a sustainable future. ✨ My Role: Leading data collection, supplier engagement, and providing essential ESG tools were just the beginning. My assessments and strategic roadmap are now empowering the company to embrace circularity and sustainability as a core business principle, setting new benchmarks in the industry.

The largest and most sustainable nature-based climate action solution in the world. The AGR Project, led by Raphael as Chief Circular Industrial Economist, is a groundbreaking mega scale project aimed at combating climate change through nature-based solutions. It focuses on mass planting high carbon sequestrating plants to remove gigatons of CO2 while revolutionizing the agricultural sector. Key components include developing sustainable agricultural methodologies, establishing community processing centers, and creating eco-friendly products. The project emphasizes sustainability, with an advanced AI-managed supply chain and eco-friendly product platform. It is expected to generate significant financial returns and create over 25 million jobs, contributing to poverty reduction and environmental improvement. Recognized for its innovation, the project utilizes cutting-edge technologies like satellite monitoring and AI management. Praised by prestigious organizations, it is seen as a leader in sustainable development, particularly in Africa, where it promotes resilience to climate change through clean energy and sustainable practices. By working closely with local stakeholders and empowering communities, the project ensures its solutions are tailored and sustainable in the long run, aiming for a greener future while addressing local needs.

The partnership between Coffee Resurrect and Raphael Schranz epitomizes the transformative potential of the circular bioeconomy. Coffee Resurrect, a trailblazer in this field, redefines the role of used coffee grounds, viewing them as valuable resources rather than waste. Through industrial symbiosis, they've established a cycle where coffee grounds are upcycled into various products, minimizing waste and maximizing economic opportunities. Schranz, a leading expert in the circular economy, played a pivotal role by providing tailored training and consulting services to empower Coffee Resurrect's mission. This included delving into circularity principles, industrial symbiosis, sustainable sourcing, and innovative design. Together, they've developed a circular business strategy aligned with Coffee Resurrect's goals, measured environmental benefits, identified market opportunities, and ensured regulatory compliance. Their journey showcases how circular economy principles can drive both environmental stewardship and economic growth, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.

The collaboration between Återbygget Ekonomisk Förening and Raphael Schranz highlights significant strides in the circular economy, emphasizing its role in fostering sustainability. Återbygget, a Swedish pioneer in circular economy solutions for the construction sector, redefines waste as a resource, aligning with circular principles to minimize waste and maximize economic benefits. Partnering with Schranz, an expert in circular economy practices, they embarked on reshaping the sector's operational landscape. Beginning with a Circular Economy Training, they laid the groundwork for understanding circular operations and explored the strategic use of Industry 4.0 & 5.0 Technologies. They then developed a strategic roadmap focusing on reuse, maintenance, and the introduction of a digital secondary raw material marketplace. This approach not only reduces waste and emissions but also lowers costs and creates employment opportunities. The collaboration yielded quantifiable reductions in emissions, underscoring tangible environmental benefits, and successfully managed the transition to circular operations. Schranz's tailored consulting services further supported Återbygget's mission, emphasizing the transformative potential of circular economy principles in driving both environmental stewardship and economic prosperity. Together, they contribute to a more circular, regenerative, and resilient future.

Raphael played a pivotal role as a Circular Economy Specialist in the EU Green Deal Complexity Analysis, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modeling the transition to a fair and sustainable Europe within the framework of the European Green Deal. This initiative was conducted as part of the Shared Green Deal Arena Series, hosted by the esteemed Dutch Research Institute for Transition (DRIFT) and generously funded by the European Union. In collaboration with over 100 distinguished participants, they utilized an X-Curve analysis model to delve into the intricacies of transitioning towards a fair and sustainable Europe. The discussions revolved around six strategic priorities integral to achieving the climate action and zero pollution objectives of the EU Green Deal, encompassing Clean Energy, Circular Economy, Efficient Renovations, Sustainable Mobility, Sustainable Food, Preserving Biodiversity, Climate Action, and Zero Pollution. Raphael's contributions extended beyond discourse, as he actively participated in mapping future scenarios and crafting comprehensive transition pathways specifically tailored to implement a European Circular Industrial Economy. Employing a back-casting approach, he played a crucial role in constructing timelines for implementation strategies while meticulously analyzing potential trade-offs and co-benefits among the various priorities of the EU Green Deal. One of the highlights of Raphael's involvement was the intricate analysis of feedback loops between energy and food production and consumption systems, within the overarching principles of the circular economy and circular value creation. Through his expertise and dedication, Raphael significantly enriched the dialogue surrounding the EU Green Deal, paving the way for informed decision-making and impactful policy interventions towards a more sustainable future. Watch the Summary here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=cXUODyvmi_Y https://sharedgreendeal.eu/resources/pathways- more-just-sustainable-europe

As the Lead Auditor for the Certified Circular Economy Officer (acc. ISO 59004) program at Austrian Standards International, I specialize in evaluating and certifying professionals committed to integrating circular economy principles and sustainable business practices within their organizations. My role involves conducting ISO 59000-aligned knowledge assessments to ensure candidates possess a deep understanding of resource efficiency, waste reduction, circular business models, and reverse supply chains. With a focus on sustainability compliance and best practices, I help businesses and professionals align with global environmental goals, enhance corporate ESG performance, and contribute to the transition towards a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy. By upholding rigorous sustainability standards, I support organizations in adopting circular strategies that improve resilience, profitability, and long-term sustainability. Key Responsibilities & Areas of Expertise: 1. Certification & Compliance: Conducting audits and evaluations to certify professionals in ISO 59000 circular economy frameworks. 2. Sustainable Resource Management: Promoting best practices in waste reduction, material circularity, and supply chain optimization. 3. Reverse Logistics & Circular Business Models: Assessing candidates' ability to implement closed-loop systems, remanufacturing, and product life-cycle extension. 4. Corporate Sustainability & ESG Integration: Helping organizations meet regulatory requirements and strengthen their sustainability reporting and compliance. 5. Environmental Stewardship & Economic Resilience: Supporting the shift towards a circular bioeconomy, reducing carbon footprints, and fostering sustainable innovation. This certification provides professionals with a competitive edge in the circular economy and sustainability sector, equipping them with the expertise to lead circular economy initiatives and drive meaningful business transformation.

Hosted by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the European Network for Community- led initiatives on Climate Change and Sustainability (ECOLISE), Raphael worked on the co-creation of strategic parameters to strengthen the role of local communities in the European Union. He supported the strengthening of the role of permaculture initiatives, transition networks and ecovillages to achieve a bottom-up approach for the sustainable transition through decentralized community-based actions. These grassroots movements are vital to the Green Deal and the fair and just transition the that the global civilization wants to achieve. Raphael has helped to form the holistic and systemic approach that is needed to tackle planetary crisis, caused by our extractive and destructive economic system, such as biodiversity loss and pollution. To recognize that everything is connected and that humans are a part of nature and not separate from it, is essential to enable regeneration in the natural world and in social, economic, and political systems. v Lastly, he also he provided deep insight on other underlying problems such as political apathy or distrust on the side of community-led initiatives which could lead to the creation of major roadblocks in the implementation the European Green Deal. He noted that trust between policy makers and communities in democratic processes needs to be re-established, also with the help of adequate decentralized funding pools.

Environment and Waste Management Consultancy Environment and Waste Management Consultancy WNSKS GmbH · VollzeitWNSKS GmbH · Vollzeit Sept. 2019–Jan. 2023 · 3 Jahre 5 MonateSept. 2019–Jan. 2023 · 3 Jahre 5 Monate Wiener NeustadtWiener Neustadt I provided general waste management consultancy and advice to companies, communities, households, businesses, educational institutions, and organizations on waste management (collection, prevention, disposal) and environmental protection. I fulfilled consulting and information obligations regarding all waste management-related matters concerning all operations, serving as the point of contact for customers, suppliers, and internal departments on all matters related to quality and the environment. Additionally, I ensured compliance with legal requirements and advised management on environmental protection and environmental management. Furthermore, I contributed to the improvement of the company's own quality and environmental management system. In this role, my responsibilities included preventing factors such as waste generation, emissions, radioactive radiation, or chemical substances. I checked and measured whether the permissible limits were met. I also ensured the maintenance of standards for environmentally sound wastewater and waste treatment. Outside the company, I acted as an intermediary with authorities and environmental protection initiatives. I participated in the development of remediation plans for contaminated water bodies and soils. Moreover, I executed trainings and workshops about the Circular Economy for public and private organizations. I conducted guided tours and conceptualized and applied new projects according to the European Waste Hierarchy. On multiple occasions, I was invited to give speeches for companies about the Circular Economy and its impact on business models, value chains, and resource flows. Lastly, I was responsible for creating mathematical models for statistical analysis on resource flows. I identified metrics and Key Performance Indicators for waste collection centers to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Tutoring in applied mathematics until university entrance level in the fields of: set theory and logic equations and inequalities financial mathematics analytic trigonometry & geometry functions- and vectoranalysis probability and statistics differential and integral calculus

The Senate of Economy Austria is a distinguished institution dedicated to fostering economic development and Sustainability within Austria. It serves as a non-partisan platform where leaders from various sectors collaborate to address economic challenges and promote innovation. As a certified Circular Economy Specialist, my role within the Senate is pivotal. I am contributing and sharing my expertise and insight into Circular Economy principles, which are essential for driving sustainable practices and resource optimization. My dedication to advancing Circular Economy initiatives, make me a valuable asset in shaping Austria's economic landscape towards greater sustainability. Within the Senate, I play a key role in: Advocating for Circular Economy Policies: My expertise allows me to advocate for policies that promote circularity, subsequently enabling resource efficiency, emission reductions and waste elimination at both regional and national levels. Strategic Planning and Implementation: My participation in developing strategies and action plans to integrate Circular Economy principles into Austria's economic framework, guides businesses and policymakers towards more sustainable practices. Education and Awareness: Through workshops, seminars, and educational initiatives, I raise awareness about the importance of Circular Economy principles among businesses, policymakers, and the general public, driving broader adoption and understanding. Collaborative Initiatives: I am collaborating with fellow Senators and stakeholders to initiate projects and partnerships that advance Circular Economy goals, fostering innovation and cross-sectoral collaboration. My role as a certified Circular Economy Specialist empowers me to make tangible contributions towards building a more sustainable and resilient economy within Austria, aligning with the Senate's mission of driving positive economic and societal change.

As a partner with the Circular Economy Forum Austria, I am at the forefront of driving sustainable change in Austria's and the international economic landscape. Through collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives, I am actively promoting the transition to a circular economy model, where resources are conserved, waste is minimized, and economic growth is decoupled from resource consumption. My involvement spans from advocating for policy reforms to implementing practical solutions and trainings, fostering a culture of sustainability among businesses, policymakers, and the public alike. Together with other stakeholders, I am shaping a more resilient and environmentally conscious future for Austria and the world, where economic prosperity goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. As a partner with the Circular Economy Forum Austria, I am at the forefront of driving sustainable change in Austria's and the international economic landscape. Through collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives, I am actively promoting the transition to a circular economy model, where resources are conserved, waste is minimized, and economic growth is decoupled from resource consumption. My involvement spans from advocating for policy reforms to implementing practical solutions and trainings, fostering a culture of sustainability among businesses, policymakers, and the public alike. Together with other stakeholders, I am shaping a more resilient and environmentally conscious future for Austria and the world, where economic prosperity goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship.

Ambassador and Board Member As a Circular Economy Specialist Ambassador and Board Member at the European Technology Chamber, I bring a decade of research in Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) systems, facilitating strategic guidance in crucial areas: Finance Strategy: Advising on DLT for financial transparency, efficiency, and sustainability, encompassing blockchain-based financing, asset tokenization, and sustainable investment practices. Circular Design: Advocating for circular product design, utilizing DLT for product life cycle management to ensure circular design choices, such as durability, repairability, and recyclability. Circular Tokenized Business Models: Guiding the development of sustainable business models, leveraging DLT for transparent supply chains and innovative approaches like tokenized product-as-a-service models. Reverse Supply Chains: Harnessing DLT expertise to integrate sustainable supply chain practices, including traceability, certification, and collaborative efforts to reduce environmental impact. Research and Innovation: Promoting innovation exploring DLT-circular economy synergy, fostering new technologies and solutions for environmental challenges. Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating education through webinars and meetings, emphasizing DLT's potential in advancing circular economy practices. Partnerships and Collaborations: Identifying opportunities for collaborations with organizations, research institutions, and governmental bodies, leveraging DLT and circular value creation for sustainable solutions. Ethical and Social Responsibility: Encouraging ethical and socially responsible practices among tech companies, emphasizing inclusivity, diversity, and community engagement. In my role, I bridge the gap between technology and circular economy innovation, contributing to the organization's mission for a sustainable, circular European tech sector, benefiting the environment, people, and the economy.