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Reconfiguring which systems? An interdisciplinary reflection on units of analysis in the Circular Economy transition

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  • Bonno Pel
  • Wouter Achten
  • Ahmed Z. Khan
  • Thomas Bauler

Abstract

The circular economy (CE) is gaining attention as a new concept for sustainable development. The interpretively flexible concept has evoked critical discussions of its practical and theoretical purchase ,however. Following calls for CE operationalization, this contribution provides a theoretical-methodological reflection on the relevant system understandings and units of analysis .Taking sustainability transitions research as a general conceptual background, an operational ‘CE configurations framework’ is developed through interdisciplinary knowledge integration between governance, sustainability evaluation and sustainable urban (re-)design perspectives. The framework supports empirical CE research that is focused yet sensitive to the wider transitions dynamics within which CE practices are embedded.

Suggested Citation

  • Bonno Pel & Wouter Achten & Ahmed Z. Khan & Thomas Bauler, 2018. "Reconfiguring which systems? An interdisciplinary reflection on units of analysis in the Circular Economy transition," ULB Institutional Repository 2013/276428, ULB -- Universite Libre de Bruxelles.
    • Handle: RePEc:ulb:ulbeco:2013/276428
    Note: Conference paper presented at: International Sustainability Transitions Conference(9th: June 11 - 14 2018: Manchester (UK))
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