The Circular Economy as the New Normal
This case study explores the steps that must be taken to apply circular thinking in the real world. It gives examples, shares experiences, and discusses the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach. It also describes the need for upscaling and innovation from a pragmatic and programmatic approach and shows how implementation gaps can be bridged.
Why is cooperation in the value chain needed at a multi-stakeholder level? If capitalism and industrialization are responsible for social and environmental degradation, what economic reforms are needed to create a circular economy?
Organizational Transformation
While working together in value chains, doing open innovation projects, and participating in financing experiments sounds exciting and promising, there are also some internal adjustments to make within a company. First of all, when companies are serious about the circular economy, take some time to do an impact assessment. This will identify the biggest gains within the company and it provides direction for a strategic approach.
After determining the possible impact and incorporating this on a strategic level, it is time to implement the circular business model within the organization (e.g. processes, input of materials, product design and development, market proposition, product use, and product end-of-use). All concerned departments should be involved in the organizational change to create commitment, entrepreneurship, and ambassadorship within the company. Which departments will face changes depends on the strategic decisions. It might impact suppliers, customers, or shareholders too.
organizational transformation is crucial if a company has circular ambitions and wants to develop professionally. All changes go through a curve of resistance, and face difficulty and failure, but they also provide a great opportunity to innovate and reduce costs while consciously choosing to walk on the path of circularity.
