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The environmental and material implications of circular transitions: A diffusion and product‐life‐cycle‐based modeling framework

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  • Carlos Pablo Sigüenza
  • Bernhard Steubing
  • Arnold Tukker
  • Glenn A. Aguilar‐Hernández

Abstract

Circular business models (CBMs) and their potential environmental benefits have been widely assessed by using life cycle assessment (LCA). However, most LCA studies consider static systems and assume instant and full technology adoption, limiting the analysis of the implications of circular transitions. Considering technology diffusion in LCA models may bring a better understanding of the environmental implications of the adoption of CBMs. Nevertheless, diffusion is also related to stock dynamics, which are difficult to represent in classic LCA models. To overcome these issues, we propose a modeling framework that integrates three modeling families to assess the environmental impacts and material implications of the adoption of CBMs: diffusion of innovations, product stock dynamics, and LCA. We present a method of application and illustrate it with a theoretical case study. This framework might be useful in the socio‐economic analysis of systems transitioning to CBMs, especially in systems that involve long‐lived products.

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  • Carlos Pablo Sigüenza & Bernhard Steubing & Arnold Tukker & Glenn A. Aguilar‐Hernández, 2021. "The environmental and material implications of circular transitions: A diffusion and product‐life‐cycle‐based modeling framework," Journal of Industrial Ecology, Yale University, vol. 25(3), pages 563-579, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:inecol:v:25:y:2021:i:3:p:563-579
    DOI: 10.1111/jiec.13072
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Maryam Hina & Chetna Chauhan & Rajat Sharma & Amandeep Dhir, 2023. "Circular economy business models as pillars of sustainability: Where are we now, and where are we heading?," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 32(8), pages 6182-6209, December.
    2. Mario Fargnoli & Nicolas Haber & Massimo Tronci, 2022. "Case Study Research to Foster the Optimization of Supply Chain Management through the PSS Approach," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(4), pages 1-19, February.
    3. Christine Roxanne Hung & Paul Kishimoto & Volker Krey & Anders Hammer Strømman & Guillaume Majeau‐Bettez, 2022. "ECOPT2: An adaptable life cycle assessment model for the environmentally constrained optimization of prospective technology transitions," Journal of Industrial Ecology, Yale University, vol. 26(5), pages 1616-1630, October.

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