This chapter critically examines the concept of the circular economy (CE) as a dynamic and flexible "boundary object" that bridges diverse organizational fields, perspectives, and social worlds. Building on socio-ecological and socio-technical frameworks, the analysis explores CE's potential to connect environmental quality, economic prosperity, and social equity. Drawing from key definitions and scholarly debates, it emphasizes three critical aspects of CE: redesigning production and consumption processes by mimicking natural cycles, transforming spatial and social relationships through systemic and reticular approaches, and redefining the hierarchy between means and goals by aligning CE strategies with sustainability and justice. The chapter underscores the interplay of thermodynamics, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the socio-political dimensions of CE, highlighting its dual role as both a scientific and normative project aimed at fostering sustainable development for current and future generations.

The Anatomy of the Circular Economy: Goals, Strategies, Values and Scales

Lambiase N.
;
Barbera F.
2024-01-01

Abstract

This chapter critically examines the concept of the circular economy (CE) as a dynamic and flexible "boundary object" that bridges diverse organizational fields, perspectives, and social worlds. Building on socio-ecological and socio-technical frameworks, the analysis explores CE's potential to connect environmental quality, economic prosperity, and social equity. Drawing from key definitions and scholarly debates, it emphasizes three critical aspects of CE: redesigning production and consumption processes by mimicking natural cycles, transforming spatial and social relationships through systemic and reticular approaches, and redefining the hierarchy between means and goals by aligning CE strategies with sustainability and justice. The chapter underscores the interplay of thermodynamics, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the socio-political dimensions of CE, highlighting its dual role as both a scientific and normative project aimed at fostering sustainable development for current and future generations.
2024
Innovations for Circularity and Knowledge Creation: Participation and Cooperative Approaches for Sustainability
Palgrave Macmillan
21
42
9783031595226
9783031595233
circular economy, regenerative economy, socio-ecological transformations, social innovation
Lambiase N.; Barbera F.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2318/2051853
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