P-58
Organising the circular economy: 7 steps towards a circular business model
Ivo Kothman, Moniek Kamm, Timber Haaker
Business Models Research Group, Saxion
The circular economy (CE) is an economic system designed to maximize reusability of products and raw materials and to minimize value destruction1. Circular economy, as opposed to a linear economy which is a 'take, make, dispose' model of production, is key in reaching national and international sustainability goals. Technology plays a major role in developing closed material loops that avoid resource waste, and in enabling models that optimize the use of the functionality of products. A major issue in organising circular loops and models is making them economically sustainable, i.e. in developing circular business models.
First we present a new conceptual framework for describing business models for the circular economy containing seven building blocks. Next we provide a 7-step method for developing circular business models and a practical workbook2 that provides hands-on support for applying the method. The framework and method are also at the heart of a MOOC Circular Business Models (under construction).
References:
1. MVO Nederland, 2016.