The Circular Economy Handbook 2023 provides a comprehensive overview of the various dimensions and challenges of the circular economy (CE). It shows how the CE can act as a transformative force that aims to create a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy that is in line with environmental and social limits.
The following key points are presented:
- Circular economy as narrative and framework: The circular economy is described as an evolving concept that goes beyond simple recycling and calls for systemic changes in economic activity. It includes a variety of ideas and approaches that focus on creating regenerative and distributive economic systems.
- Organisational field of the circular economy: It shows how CE has established itself as a new organisational field characterised by cooperation between companies, political actors and other organisations. These collaborations are leading to common practices and standards that are increasingly influencing the way organisations operate.
- Innovations and strategies: CE is described as an area where creativity and innovation take centre stage. Companies and entrepreneurs are developing new products and services aimed at supporting the transition to a regenerative and sustainable economy. However, there are tensions between radical, disruptive innovation and more incremental change.
- Challenges and ambiguities: The report points to existing challenges and uncertainties in the implementation of the CE. These include issues of social justice, the costs of transformation and the risk of "greenwashing", whereby companies use CE practices to improve their image without bringing about real change.
The handbook provides both a theoretical foundation and practical case studies to shed light on the implementation of the circular economy in different industries and contexts. It serves as a guide and source of inspiration for those who want to explore the principles and practices of CE and apply them in their organisations.
You can download the manual here:
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