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Mission-Oriented Research and Theory of Change: Driving Australia’s Transition to a Circular Economy

Author

Listed:
  • Heinz Schandl

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Naomi J Boxall

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Colleen MacMillan

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Natasha Porter

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Andrew Terhorst

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Taryn Kong

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Andrea Walton

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Melissa Skidmore

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Bev Muhlhausler

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Jane Hodgkinson

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

  • Michael Ambrose

    (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO))

Abstract

Australia’s linear economic system hinders the collective pursuit of sustainability, equity, and well-being. As demands for housing, food, energy, transportation, and goods escalate, transitioning to a circular economy becomes imperative. Such a transition necessitates a transformation in business and governance models, as well as cultural shifts, to foster sustainable material flows. The proposed change will likely unfold in five phases: envisioning a circular economy future, evaluating options and trade-offs, initiating local actions, amplifying national efforts, and solidifying global agreements. This shift will occur within the context of significant technical, environmental, social, and economic megatrends, and each phase is likely to overlap with the next, with some phases occurring concomitantly and ongoing. It will reshape socio-technical systems and social practices that fulfil our essential needs. Moreover, this transformation process is inherently circular, characterised by continuous cycles of learning, adaptation, and risk management.

Suggested Citation

  • Heinz Schandl & Naomi J Boxall & Colleen MacMillan & Natasha Porter & Andrew Terhorst & Taryn Kong & Andrea Walton & Melissa Skidmore & Bev Muhlhausler & Jane Hodgkinson & Michael Ambrose, 2025. "Mission-Oriented Research and Theory of Change: Driving Australia’s Transition to a Circular Economy," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 5(2), pages 837-850, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:circec:v:5:y:2025:i:2:d:10.1007_s43615-024-00460-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s43615-024-00460-9
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