Design for Post-Circularity

This paper critically examines the limitations of mainstream circular eco-design approaches and proposes an alternative framework grounded in post-circular thinking. Drawing on futures studies, speculative design, and Emergence theory, it situates eco-design within the evolving context of Industry 5.0. Using Italy's Spoke 2 project as a focal point, the study analyses the technocratic tendencies of circular eco-design strategies and introduces speculative design as both critique and method. A workshop methodology is presented, informed by three spheres of intervention —biosphere, technosphere, and infosphere —and mapped across industrial temporalities. The paper also highlights "Abitiamo i futuri," a public event that takes place in Florence as part of Spoke 2’s Roadshow, which brings these critical approaches into open dialogue with a broader audience through roundtables and participatory workshops. The paper concludes by reflecting on the design’s role in enabling inclusive, situated, and anticipatory futures.