The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has presented its prestigious Lawrence D. Eicher Leadership Award to the ISO Technical Committee on Circular Economy (ISO/TC 323), recognising the committee’s outstanding contribution to developing international standards that drive the global transition toward sustainable production and consumption.

The award was announced during the ISO Annual Meeting held from 6 to 10 October 2025 in Kigali, Rwanda, and formally acknowledged at the ISO/TC 323 Plenary Meeting in Montego Bay, Jamaica, from 13 to 17 October 2025. Professor Adrian Kuah, Professor of Strategy and Sustainability at the Singapore campus of James Cook University (JCU in Singapore), attended as the Head of the Singapore Delegation.

At the first day of the Plenary Meeting, Professor Kuah presented his work with the ISO Capacity Building Unit on supporting the circular economy transition in 13 developing countries in Asia involving more than 100 local experts, with support from ISO DEVCO (a committee that aims to build the capacity of developing countries in standardisation matters). His ongoing work highlighted initiatives helping these countries adopt circular business models and policies, strengthening their participation in the global sustainability transition.

As Head of the Singapore Delegation, Professor Kuah has played a key role in shaping the ISO circular economy standards framework. He has contributed to the development of the ISO 59000 series of standards, providing guidance on circular economy principles, implementation, and measurement – forming a foundation for industries and nations to move toward resource-efficient and regenerative systems.

“The Award underscores the global importance of established standards for the circular economy, reflecting both the dedication of committee members and the collective commitment to building sustainable and resilient systems that benefit developed and developing countries,” he said.

Associate Professor Denise Dillon, Acting Dean of Research at JCU in Singapore, added that the recognition also highlights how applied research can directly influence global sustainability practices, supporting countries in achieving more circular and resource-efficient economies.

Established in 2003, the Lawrence D. Eicher Leadership Award honours exceptional performance and leadership by particular ISO technical committees and subcommittees. The award recognises innovation, collaboration, and the delivery of standards that generate tangible social, economic, and environmental benefits.

ISO/TC 323 was recognised for its significant contribution and leadership in developing international standards that define and operationalise circular economy principles worldwide. Its inclusive approach, encouraging participation from developing countries, has broadened the impact of circularity frameworks across industries and regions.

Professor Carole-Anne Upton, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Singapore, James Cook University, said: “The Lawrence D. Eicher Leadership Award recognises the ISO/TC 323 Committee’s effectiveness in leadership, coordination, and innovation. Professor Kuah’s proactive engagement and commitment to ensuring developing countries are part of the circular economy transition exemplify JCU’s values of integrity and excellence and align with our mission to create a brighter future through impactful research.”

The ISO/TC 323 Committee’s recognition underscores the growing momentum behind the circular economy and the vital role of international standardisation in building shared frameworks for sustainable growth.

Find out more about the Singapore campus of James Cook University.

Check out Professor Adrian Kuah’s staff and research profiles.

Contacts
Professor Adrian Kuah: adrian.kuah@jcu.edu.au

Media: Ms Pinky Sibal pinky.sibal@jcu.edu.au / Ms Hoe Shu Rin shurin.hoe@jcu.edu.au