General Resources
We are dedicated to providing capacity-building resources to support your circular economy journey. Here is a curated list of 20 key resources on the circular economy, featuring articles, white papers and industry research that explore the theory, implementation and impact of circular systems across various industries. These resources offer a mix of academic insights, practical business guidance and sector-specific applications, all of which contribute to understanding and adopting circular economy practices.
"The Circular Economy: A Wealth of Flows"
Abstract: This foundational book by Ken Webster provides an in-depth exploration of the circular economy concept, explaining how businesses can transition from linear to circular models and the impact of these models on wealth creation and environmental sustainability.
Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
URL: https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org
"Circular Economy: From the Linear Economy to the Circular Economy"
Abstract: This research paper by Lacy and Rutqvist examines how the circular economy offers businesses opportunities to rethink traditional value chains, offering specific case studies from industry leaders.
Source: McKinsey & Company
"The Business of Circular Economy"
Abstract: This report discusses the growing trend of circular economy strategies within businesses, providing examples from industries like manufacturing, technology, and consumer goods.
Source: World Economic Forum
"Circular Economy: A New Business Model for Sustainability"
Abstract: This paper provides a detailed review of circular economy principles and their potential to disrupt traditional business models, while focusing on strategies for sustainable product lifecycle management.
Source: Harvard Business Review
URL: https://hbr.org
"Circular Economy and the Role of Design"
Abstract: Focuses on the importance of design thinking in creating circular products and services. The report outlines the relationship between design and material flows, closing the loop in product lifecycles.
Source: The Royal Society of Arts (RSA)
"The Circular Economy: Economic and Business Rationale"
Abstract: This white paper provides a solid business case for adopting circular economy principles, focusing on cost savings, resource efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
Source: Accenture
URL: https://www.accenture.com
"Circular Economy: A Framework for Action"
Abstract: This guide, developed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, presents a comprehensive overview of circular economy strategies and frameworks for action across different sectors, from business to policy.
Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
URL: https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org
"The Circular Economy Handbook: A Guide for Business and Supply Chains"
Abstract: This handbook provides practical insights for businesses seeking to implement circular economy principles. It covers everything from supply chain management to product design.
Source: Routledge Publishing
URL: https://www.routledge.com
"Waste Not: A Circular Economy for Plastics"
Abstract: This report by the World Economic Forum focuses on plastics, outlining how circular economy practices can mitigate plastic waste and improve recycling systems globally.
Source: World Economic Forum
"The Circular Economy in the European Union"
Abstract: A detailed analysis of the European Union's circular economy policies and their impact on waste management, resource recovery, and eco-design.
Source: European Commission
URL: https://ec.europa.eu
"Circular Economy and Corporate Strategy"
Abstract: This article from the Journal of Business Strategy explores how companies can integrate circular economy principles into their overall corporate strategy to create both economic and environmental value.
Source: Journal of Business Strategy
"Circular Economy: The Need for Collaboration and Innovation"
Abstract: This research paper looks at the collaboration necessary between industries, governments, and consumers to foster circularity across economies, with a focus on the role of innovation in scaling solutions.
Source: Journal of Industrial Ecology
"Circular Economy: The Next Business Revolution"
Abstract: An insightful overview of how businesses are responding to the need for more sustainable models by adopting circular practices, and the economic benefits that follow.
Source: Forbes
"Closing the Loop: Circular Economy in Action"
Abstract: This report provides actionable insights into how industries are implementing circular economy principles, with a focus on the textile and apparel sectors.
Source: McKinsey & Company
"Circular Economy: A Critical Review"
Abstract: This critical review paper provides a comprehensive academic analysis of circular economy concepts, their theoretical underpinnings, and practical applications in various sectors.
Source: Sustainability Journal
URL: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability
"Circular Economy and Cities"
Abstract: This report explores the application of circular economy models at the urban level, looking at how cities can innovate in waste management, energy, and resource recovery.
Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
URL: https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org
"Circular Business Models: Opportunities and Challenges"
Abstract: This white paper outlines various business model innovations related to the circular economy, highlighting the opportunities and challenges companies face when transitioning.
Source: Accenture
URL: https://www.accenture.com
"The Circular Economy: A Critical Analysis of Concepts and Practices"
Abstract: This academic paper critically examines the conceptual framework of circular economy, discussing its limitations and practical challenges in real-world application.
Source: Sustainability Journal
URL: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/sustainability
"Building the Circular Economy in Emerging Markets"
Abstract: A report that examines the specific challenges and opportunities for implementing circular economy strategies in emerging markets, particularly in regions with resource constraints.
Source: World Resources Institute
URL: https://www.wri.org
"Circular Economy and the Built Environment"
Abstract: This resource focuses on the circular economy's application within the built environment, exploring sustainable construction practices, material reuse, and eco-design.
Source: Green Building Council
