Circular Futures: an interdisciplinary approach based on Circular Economy principles and Futures Studies methods to support Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) transitioning to circularity and a futures-oriented organisation

Weigend Rodríguez, Ricardo

Abstract

The Circular Economy (CE) is conceived by many as paramount to decoupling economic growth from environmental impacts. Implementing this paradigm in the private sector is challenging, as it requires substantial changes at the strategic level. However, while Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) represent 99% of all businesses and 67% of employment in Europe, the available support for a CE transition has been mainly focused on large corporations. Therefore, the backbone of the European economy might be left out by the CE if tailored solutions are not designed and implemented for SMEs.

Through a bibliometric review and a snowballing technique, I reviewed the available CE and Futures Studies (FS) approaches and analysed further the most prominent of these frameworks. As the CE and FS approaches and methodologies lack guidance for their implementation, I developed a systematic method called Circular Futures Approach (CFA). An in-depth two-year-long case study approach tested this methodological tool in the context of a Dutch SME.

The combination of CE principles and FS methods could contribute to organisations' successful transition towards sustainable futures by exploring possible pathways for better decision-making in the present and equipping teams with relevant skills to survive unexpected events and stay future-relevant in uncertain times. Furthermore, the developed participatory process provides a customisable approach to SMEs, contributing to both (CE & FS) disciplines’ literature.

The results of my research demonstrate that the CFA can significantly enhance the potential of SMEs to transition to circularity and reach their preferred future. I hope the work in this research will influence the interface between top-down policymaking and bottom-up business decision-making as a valuable hands-on guideline. Furthermore, the approach could enhance the policy developments that support the vast number of existing and future SMEs in Europe and around the globe.

Citation

Weigend Rodríguez, R. Circular Futures: an interdisciplinary approach based on Circular Economy principles and Futures Studies methods to support Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) transitioning to circularity and a futures-oriented organisation. (Thesis). Edinburgh Napier University

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 21, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 21, 2023
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.17869/enu.2023.3175443
• Award Date: Jul 7, 2023