About Ian Wong

Systems Thinker | Circular Economy Advocate | Engineering Leader

Ian Wong

Driving Sustainability Through Systems Thinking

I'm passionate about helping organizations transition to circular business models and sustainable practices through systems thinking and strategic innovation.

With an engineering background from the University of Waterloo and decades of experience in technology and sustainability, I bridge the gap between technical innovation and environmental impact. My work spans three key areas: advising startups on circular economy strategies, providing governance leadership for environmental and social impact organizations, and building circular economy solutions through CirculrTech.

Based in Melbourne, Australia, I collaborate with startups, accelerators, and not-for-profit organizations to create meaningful change in how we design, produce, and consume.

Professional Journey

From engineering to circular economy innovation

Engineering Foundation

1991-1996

Earned Engineering degree from University of Waterloo, Canada, building a strong foundation in systems thinking and technical problem-solving.

Board Leadership

2018-Present

Board Director at Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation Victoria, contributing to environmental conservation and community engagement. Advisory Board member at STEM Sisters, promoting STEM education and diversity.

Startup Coaching & Advisory

2020-Present

LaunchHub Startup Coach since 2020, guiding multiple cohorts through scaling challenges. Advisory Board member for four startups: Evitat, Equoia, Atas Awan, and Zero Tag, focusing on circular economy and sustainability strategies.

CirculrTech Innovation

Present

Building circular economy solutions and sustainability data platforms through CirculrTech, applying Gen AI to supply chain sustainability and fashion circularity.

Areas of Expertise

Deep knowledge across circular economy, sustainability, and innovation

Circular Economy Strategy

Designing circular business models, supply chain optimization, and closed-loop systems for sustainable growth.

Systems Thinking

Applying holistic approaches to understand complex interdependencies and create sustainable solutions.

Startup Advisory

Strategic guidance for early-stage companies on scaling, sustainability integration, and market positioning.

Sustainability Innovation

Leveraging Gen AI and data platforms to drive measurable sustainability outcomes across industries.

Board Governance

Strategic planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement for impactful organizations.

Supply Chain Sustainability

Optimizing supply chains for circularity, transparency, and reduced environmental impact.

My Approach

Systems Thinking First

Every challenge is part of a larger system. I help organizations understand the interconnections and feedback loops that drive sustainable change.

Circular by Design

Moving beyond linear "take-make-dispose" models to create regenerative systems that benefit both business and planet.

Data-Driven Innovation

Leveraging technology and data to measure impact, optimize processes, and drive continuous improvement in sustainability performance.

Collaborative Impact

Real change requires collaboration across stakeholders, industries, and disciplines. I bring together diverse perspectives to solve complex challenges.

Current Focus Areas

Startup Advisory

Working with four innovative startups (Evitat, Equoia, Atas Awan, Zero Tag) on their Advisory Boards, plus coaching multiple cohorts through LaunchHub on circular economy strategies and sustainable scaling.

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Board Leadership

Board Director at Royal Botanic Gardens Foundation Victoria and Advisory Board member at STEM Sisters, driving environmental conservation and STEM education initiatives.

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CirculrTech Solutions

Building circular economy data platforms and Gen AI applications for supply chain sustainability, with focus on fashion and textiles innovation.

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Let's Connect

Interested in collaborating on circular economy innovation, startup advisory, or sustainability strategy? Let's start a conversation.