How SAP tackles the challenges of scaling the circular economy

Welcome to the sixth episode of Platform Disco! Today, our guest is Stephan Fester, who leads a global team at SAP dedicated to exploring circular manufacturing.

Their focus lies on discrete products, which are items that can be disassembled and reassembled. This includes a wide range of products such as tables, cars, machines, and even spaceships, as long as there's a clear construction plan and identifiable materials.

WHAT IS THE EPISODE ABOUT?
We talk about the importance of building ecosystems and leveraging existing capabilities to support a sustainable future. Stephan emphasizes the need to connect the dots and avoid building new software from scratch and also highlights the role of data in facilitating circular transactions and reducing friction in the circular economy. Stephan explains the challenges in embracing circular business models and the importance of trust and knowledge in driving the transition.

Additionally, we talk about the competitive advantage of SAP in enabling circular economy initiatives and the role of marketplaces in facilitating circular transactions. In that case we explore the opportunities for different companies in the circular economy and also talk about SAP's transformation and leadership changes, as well as the importance of setting circular strategies and roadmaps.

Finally, we delve into e-waste, scrap steel, and product grading, stressing the importance of transparency and trust in marketplaces. The conversation emphasizes the role of partnerships and support in enabling circular business models. At the end we also discuss the importance of leveraging data and implementing business AI to improve processes.

All links to Stephan and SAP:
Stephan Fester:   / stephan-fester  
SAP: https://www.sap.com

All links to Alex, Peter, and McFadyen Digital:

Alex:   / alex-pesjak-business-ecosystems  

Peter:   / peter-c-evans-phd-217b8  

McFadyen Digital: https://mcfadyen.com

Podcast produced by: https://www.lehnertmedia.com