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Circular Makerspaces as Alternative Employment Platforms for Circular Jobs

Author

Listed:
  • Aykut Coskun

    (Koc University (Arcelik Research Center for Creative Industries))

  • Rosa Hofgärtner

    (KU Leuven (HIVA))

  • Julie Metta

    (KU Leuven (FEB & HIVA), Louvain, Belgium & Tilburg University (TiSEM))

  • Alessandra Schmidt

    (IAAC
    Esade Ramon Llull University)

  • Apostolos C. Tsolakis

    (Q-PLAN International Advisors PC)

Abstract

Transitioning towards a circular economy requires holistic consideration encompassing environmental, economic, and social dimensions. This perspective paper explores circular makerspaces as innovative platforms for fostering social integration and creating employment opportunities within the circular economy, as makerspaces can offer a more inclusive alternative to traditional employment platforms. They have the potential to unveil unrecognised talents, bridge access to under-utilised human capital, and act as pivotal conduits to a decent and inclusive circular labour force. Drawing insights from the European Horizon 2020 project: Pop-Machina, this perspective paper emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to unlock the full transformative potential of circular makerspaces. By prioritizing the social aspect of sustainability and leveraging the network of circular makerspaces, circular makerspaces can unlock unexplored human capital, provide employment opportunities and cultivate inclusive, sustainable communities, while highlighting their potential for societal empowerment and innovation. Finally, this perspective paper underscores the need for ongoing research and collaboration to comprehensively understand and evaluate the role of circular makerspaces in the inclusive circular labour market, ensuring that the social dimension remains central to sustainable development endeavours and informing effective policy making.

Suggested Citation

  • Aykut Coskun & Rosa Hofgärtner & Julie Metta & Alessandra Schmidt & Apostolos C. Tsolakis, 2025. "Circular Makerspaces as Alternative Employment Platforms for Circular Jobs," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 5(1), pages 193-207, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:circec:v:5:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s43615-024-00413-2
    DOI: 10.1007/s43615-024-00413-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Alejandro Padilla-Rivera & Sara Russo-Garrido & Nicolas Merveille, 2020. "Addressing the Social Aspects of a Circular Economy: A Systematic Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(19), pages 1-17, September.
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