Reflecting on my experience in The Week, I feel that my path in the circular economy is coming into focus. The sessions provided more than insights into climate change; they guided me to think deeply about my motivations and what I truly want from my career. In 10 years, I see myself working on projects focused on using waste as a resource—not from a place of feeling like a hero but because I genuinely find it fascinating. The challenges involved in transforming waste into value capture my interest, and I’m excited by the prospect of bringing a circular mindset to every project I take on, even if reducing waste isn’t the main goal.
This journey has been a chance to connect with my inner compass. I’ve realized that what drives me is more than just the idea of sustainability—it’s the chance to keep learning, to collaborate with people who inspire me, and to apply my skills in new and creative ways. While I don’t know where this path will take me geographically, I hope to continue meeting people who share my commitment, expanding my knowledge, and finding innovative ways to help the circular economy thrive. Wherever I end up, I’m looking forward to using my skills to make a meaningful impact and contributing to a more sustainable world.
About BERNARDO GUERRERO RODRIGUEZ
I am Bernardo Guerrero Rodriguez, a nanotechnology engineer and current master’s student in the Advanced Materials and Innovative Recycling (AMIR) program, now at UPM in Madrid, specializing in Circular Economy. My background includes a Bachelor’s in Nanotechnology Engineering from Yachay Tech University in Ecuador, where I worked on projects in green chemistry, biopolymers, and nanoparticle synthesis. My focus areas include sustainable development, urban mining, and recycling of construction waste, with the goal of driving innovative, environmentally conscious solutions for industrial sustainability.