René Kleijn is a Professor of Resilient Resource Supply at Leiden University in the Netherlands. His research primarily centers on developing and applying quantitative methods like Substance and Material Flow Analysis and Life Cycle Assessment.
René Kleijn is a Professor of Resilient Resource Supply at Leiden University in the Netherlands. He holds an MSc in Chemistry and a PhD in Industrial Ecology. At Leiden University he heads the Department of Industrial Ecology at the Institute of Environmental Sciences. He has made significant contributions to the field of Industrial Ecology playing a significant role in shaping it into a recognized scientific discipline. He was one of the founding members and councilor of the International Society of Industrial Ecology.
He has actively participated in some 15 EU-funded research projects. He is one of the core contributors to a recently started Growth Fund project focused on creating a sustainable steel sector in the Netherlands (Groeien met Groen Staal). Furthermore, he was one of the co-founders and director of education of the Leiden-Delft master's program in Industrial Ecology, which has since become the largest educational program of its kind worldwide.
His research primarily centers on developing and applying quantitative methods like Substance and Material Flow Analysis and Life Cycle Assessment. Kleijn's expertise extends across various industries, including chemical industry, energy related industries, mining and recycling. He applies these methodologies to present science based, quantitative modeling outcomes to both industry leaders and policy makers. In recent years, his research has focused on critical raw materials, resilient supply chains, responsible sourcing, circular economy, and the material requirements of the energy transition.
René Kleijn joined the Panel in May 2025 for a 1-year engagement period, before being considered for full membership by May 2026 (as per IRP standard procedures).