Designing a Tool for Identifying and Integrating Stakeholders in the Circular Economy

The transition to a circular economy (CE) signifies a profound shift in the manner by which global environmental challenges are addressed. Rather than adhering to the conventional linear model characterized by "take, make, dispose," the CE frameworks prioritize resource efficiency, waste reduction, and regenerative processes, thereby requiring systemic transformations across value chains and production systems. Although CE frameworks present substantial opportunities for advancing sustainable development, their implementation is often impeded by various constraints, including institutional inertia, fragmented value chains, and inadequate collaboration among various stakeholders.

This study examines the critical role of stakeholder engagement in surmounting these challenges. Stakeholders—including policymakers, industry leaders, consumers, and non-governmental organizations—are essential for aligning diverse interests and promoting collaborative strategies. Employing a mixed-methods design that integrates a systematic review of existing CE literature with semi-structured interviews of both internal and external stakeholders, the research identifies pivotal drivers for CE adoption, such as regulatory incentives, heightened consumer demand for sustainable products, and technological innovations.

Building on the study’s findings, an accessible stakeholder engagement framework was developed to facilitate collaboration and communication across interdisciplinary and cross-cultural teams. This framework comprises three primary modules: stakeholder identification, collaboration strategies, and performance evaluation. It facilitates the systematic mapping of stakeholder roles, offers practical strategies for fostering partnerships, and introduces explicit metrics to assess environmental, social, and economic outcomes. Preliminary assessments suggest that this effectively addresses knowledge gaps and reinforces stakeholder engagement across diverse industries and regions.

By recognizing the multifaceted nature of the circular economy (CE) and emphasizing inclusivity, this study provides a comprehensive and pragmatic perspective on CE implementation. Its findings offer actionable guidance for organizations endeavouring to embed CE principles within their operational practices, thereby enhancing international cooperation and furthering sustainable development on a global scale.