A2 Review article, Literature review, Systematic review
A systematic literature review of the transition to the circular economy in business organizations : Obstacles, catalysts and ambivalences (2021)
Sarja, M., Onkila, T., & Mäkelä, M. (2021). A systematic literature review of the transition to the circular economy in business organizations : Obstacles, catalysts and ambivalences. Journal of Cleaner Production, 286, Article 125492. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.125492
The research was funded by Strategic Research Council at the Research Council of Finland.
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Sarja, Milla; Onkila, Tiina; Mäkelä, Marileena
Journal or series: Journal of Cleaner Production
ISSN: 0959-6526
eISSN: 1879-1786
Publication year: 2021
Volume: 286
Article number: 125492
Publisher: Elsevier
Publication country: United Kingdom
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.125492
Publication open access: Not open
Publication channel open access:
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/73654
Abstract
There is a need for a transition from unsustainable linear business models to a more sustainable circular approach, called the circular economy. To promote this need, a deeper understanding of which issues hinder organizations’ transition to the circular economy and which ones catalyse it is needed. A systematic literature review was performed on the business implementation of the circular economy and 69 articles covering the topic were found. The review identifies different types of catalyst, obstacles and ambivalent factors influencing circular economy implementation in business. This study contributes to research on circular economy implementation at business organizations by providing understanding on the role of these factors in supporting or hindering the change. This study also opens discussion on ambivalent factors that in certain contexts can act as a catalyst to and in others as a hindrance to circular economy. This understanding further enables identification of the origins of these different types of factors, especially concerning their intraorganizational or interorganizational role. The study further identifies gaps to be studied in future research.
Keywords: circular economy; transitional phases; business models; barriers; systematic reviews
Free keywords: circular economy; business transition; catalysts; obstacles; systematic literature review
Contributing organizations
Related projects
- Circular Economy Catalysts: from innovation to business ecosystems
- Onkila, Tiina
- Research Council of Finland
Ministry reporting: Yes
Reporting Year: 2021
JUFO rating: 2