Dear Colleagues,
Let's pause to think;
"If we can't measure it, we can't manage it – and the Circular Economy demands precision, not just promise." ~ W.M
My new article presents a critical leap forward, "Towards Circular Economy Metrics: a Systematic Review" meticulously tackles one of the most pressing challenges in the transition to a circular economy:
The article is guided upon this epistemological lense:
How do we truly measure progress? What is known about traditional metrics often revolves around linear indicators like waste generated or recycling rates.
While useful, these frequently fail to capture the systemic interdependencies and value retention inherent in a circular model.
The current state-of-the-art offers a fragmented landscape of disparate indicators, lacking harmonization and comprehensive scope.
The novelty of this paper lies in its rigorous systematic review. It synthesizes a vast array of existing metrics to expose their limitations and illuminate the path forward.
This article provides enriched insights into the complexities of measurement, moving beyond simple input/output analysis. The study identifies and scrutinizes over six critical aspects of metrics (e.g., material flows, energy efficiency, value retention, social impacts, economic viability, and system-level circularity), revealing significant gaps, particularly in the social dimension and across different scales (micro, meso, macro).
The contribution to knowledge is immense. It provides a robust, evidence-based roadmap for developing a unified, comprehensive, and truly effective set of CE metrics. By delineating what exists and what is missing, the study not only clarifies the chaotic current landscape but also serves as a roadmap for future exploration and unraveling of measurement challenges.
This systematic approach paves the way for a new generation of sophisticated, interconnected metrics crucial for effective policy-making, business strategy, and ultimately, real-world impact.
The reality the study highlights is that without a common language for measuring circularity, we risk misdirected efforts and elusive progress.
The article advocates for sophisticated collaboration among researchers, industry, and policymakers to converge on universally accepted, robust metrics, ensuring our collective journey toward a truly circular future is not merely aspirational but demonstrably impactful.
Also Link:
Let's SHARE across our contacts, mentors and within our networks.
Reach out for any collaboration, shared ideas and synergy.
Best regards,
Williams Chibueze Munonye
Linkoping University
Sweden.