Business and production solutions: closing loops and the circular economy

Brennan, Geraldine, Tennant, Mike and Blomsma, Fenna (2015) Business and production solutions: closing loops and the circular economy. In: Sustainability: Key Issues. Kopnina, Helen and Shoreman-Ouimet, Eleanor, eds. Key Issues in Environment and Sustainability . Routledge: EarthScan, pp. 219-239. ISBN 9780415529860. [Book Section]

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Abstract

Traditional production frameworks and business models are now being challenged by alternatives that are informed by biology. The alternative paradigm, based on ecosystem models, argues that shifting from linear modes of production to a circular system can address material and energy efficiency by reducing the total volume of raw materials needed when manufacturing consumer products. This chapter introduces frameworks that apply closed-loop models at the product level namely; the Performance Economy, Cradle-to-CradleTM design, The Blue Economy and the Circular Economy.

We discuss the historic development of these ideas and their main contributions. Through the use of examples we explore both practical challenges associated with realising circular strategies as well as their business model implications. We conclude by highlighting some of the theoretical challenges associated with adopting closed-loop models advocating for a critical approach to sustainable resource management which includes circular strategies as part of a toolbox of options.

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