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Recyclability: Redefining the concept for the circular economy

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  • Hannes Geist
  • Frank Balle

Abstract

Recyclability is a vital concept for the circular economy (CE). Recycling is an inevitable processing path in the technosphere of the CE, making good recyclability of materials and products a fundamental design requirement. Recyclability concepts in laws and standards are based on a homogeneous, but highly oversimplified, mass‐based and Boolean understanding, potentially stabilizing downcycling in the linear economy. Scientific literature shows heterogeneous concepts, more aligned with the CE but lacking a common terminology and taxonomy. Therefore, a novel improved recyclability concept for the CE was developed, following an integrative research approach for theory recontextualization of a mature topic. The concept comprises a definition, dimensions, and levels of recyclability, as well as types of recyclability investigations and corresponding types of recyclability. It can help structure the discourse across disciplines, create comparable results through a shared language, and ensure consistency with the CE concept. Interoperable operationalizations of recyclability for the CE can be developed or existing ones assessed based on this in future work.

Suggested Citation

  • Hannes Geist & Frank Balle, 2025. "Recyclability: Redefining the concept for the circular economy," Journal of Industrial Ecology, Yale University, vol. 29(5), pages 1505-1522, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:inecol:v:29:y:2025:i:5:p:1505-1522
    DOI: 10.1111/jiec.70082
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