Evaluating the feasibility of social, economic, and environmental sustainability strategies for explosive waste management in small manufacturing facilities - PhD

About the Project

Sustainability in explosive waste management remains a critical yet understudied challenge, particularly for small-scale, remote manufacturing facilities that often lack the resources and infrastructure of larger defence or industrial operations.

This research aims to identify and evaluate sustainability strategies across social, economic, and environmental dimensions that offer the greatest potential for routine, practical implementation in these contexts.

The study will adopt a multi-criteria assessment framework combining environmental impact analysis, cost benefit evaluation, and social acceptability measures. It will examine current waste treatment and disposal methods, alongside emerging innovations such as waste valorisation, circular material use, and low-energy remediation technologies. Field studies and stakeholder engagement will be conducted to understand operational constraints, regulatory barriers, and opportunities for knowledge transfer and collaboration.

There will be the opportunity to visit and work with the leading ammunition manufacturing company.

By working closely with both the manufacturing company and Cranfield University, the student will engage with industry experts in ammunition production as well as academics specialising in chemistry, environmental science and engineering gaining a broad range of valuable and transferable skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have a background in environmental science, chemistry or engineering with knowledge of sustainable technologies that can be applied to a manufacturing setting. A strong understanding of sustainability principles would be an advantage.

How to apply

For further information please contact: Name: Professor Tracey Temple Email: t.temple@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.

Applications should be submitted as soon as possible, as the interview process will begin within the application period due to high demand.

This studentship is based at our Shrivenham Campus.

This vacancy may be filled before the closing date so early application is strongly encouraged.