Research Article: Conceptualizing the Circular Economy (Revisited): An Analysis of 221 Definitions
Research Article: Conceptualizing the Circular Economy (Revisited): An Analysis of 221 Definitions
The circular economy (CE) concept has rapidly gained popularity among academics and professionals over the past ten years. Kirchherr et al. discovered that the CE idea is interpreted and applied in a number of ways in a 2017 article. Although varied CE interpretations can enhance scholarly viewpoints, divergence and fragmentation can sometimes prevent the concept from being consolidated. There has been some discussion of these developments in the literature that focuses on particular contexts. Still, no comprehensive, systematic study has examined the field to determine whether such consolidation has occurred. This research closes this gap by examining 221 current CE definitions and presents numerous important conclusions. First, throughout the previous five years, the notion has consolidated and differentiated.
Second, definitional tendencies that may be more relevant to research than practise are beginning to emerge. Third, academics are increasingly advocating a fundamental systemic change, notably within supply chains, to support CE. Fourth, although it’s usually said that CE’s main goal is sustainable development, it’s still unclear whether CE can simultaneously promote environmental sustainability and economic growth. Finally, recent studies assert that a broad coalition of stakeholders, including producers, consumers, policymakers, and scholars, is necessary for the CE transition. With its updated systematic analysis of CE definitions and conceptualisations, this study offers an empirical window into the state of academic research. Thus, it offers a foundation for further investigation into the necessity of conceptual consolidation and how it might be helped for practical purposes.
Download Full Article Please Visit: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921344923001374?via%3Dihub