On Circularity, Complexity and (Elements of) Hope

Abstract

A truly sustainable circular economy is more than just recycling, making it a complex matter. We argue that reducing complexity will ease the path to circular economy. Complexity reduction potential lies in lower material diversity, increasing accessibility and intuitive use for consumers, as well as simplifying business operations.

Keywords

• industrial sustainability
• barriers
• enablers
• closed-loop supply chain
• business model innovation
• circular ecosystems
• material diversity
• biomimicry