In her dissertation, Dr. Heinrich provides profound and timely insights into the generation, collection, and treatment of e-waste in highly dynamic contexts across the Global South. Her work highlights not only the complexities and challenges of current practices but also presents viable pathways for transforming e-waste systems toward more sustainable and equitable futures.
Beyond her dissertation, Vanessa has made exceptional contributions to the development of our chair in both teaching and research. She played an essential role in establishing structures and processes during a period marked by considerable challenges, including the pandemic. Moreover, she was instrumental in shaping and advancing the TUM Mission Network Circular Economy (CirculaTUM) during its formative phase. Her dedication, reliability, and creativity have left a lasting impact on our team and activities.
Following the defense, the Chair of Circular Economy and Sustainability Assessment (CEC@TUM) hosted a warm and joyful celebration. Highlights included a playful “second examination,” in which Vanessa applied her Circular Economy expertise to reflect on her upcoming life chapter, as well as a musical performance by our trio “CE-Dur” (Svenja Klose, Sarah Hasslacher, and Dominik Reichert), who dedicated “Her Song” to commemorate the occasion.
We warmly congratulate Dr. Vanessa Heinrich on this outstanding achievement and extend our heartfelt thanks for her many contributions—both academically and personally. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and wish her every success as she embarks on the next steps of her professional journey.
