Circular Economy in Creative Industries on the Example of Craft and Artisan Makers

Purpose: The research aims to present current circular economy practices among craft and artisan makers, identify gaps and opportunities, and highlight sustainable development methods employed in this sector. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study utilized focus group interviews (FGI) as the primary data collection method. Three focus group sessions were conducted over two years (2022-2023), involving 28 diverse craft and artisan makers from Poland. Participants represented various creative industries and had varying levels of experience and age. Findings: The research revealed four key areas of good circular economy practices: production processes, products and packaging, waste reuse, and sharing. Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining traditional production methods while incorporating sustainable practices. They also highlighted the use of natural ingredients, upcycling, and networking as crucial elements in implementing circular economy principles. Further studies could explore the long-term impact of circular economy practices on the sustainability and profitability of craft and artisan businesses. Additionally, research into developing sector-specific guidelines for circular economy implementation could be beneficial. Practical Implications: The findings suggest that craft and artisan makers can significantly contribute to sustainable development by adopting circular economy principles. Practitioners should focus on innovative ways to incorporate these practices while preserving traditional craftsmanship. Networking and knowledge sharing among artisans could also facilitate the wider adoption of circular economy practices in the creative sector. Originality value: Circular economy is gaining prominence in creative industries, including design, architecture, fashion, and art. This approach aims to minimize waste generation by ensuring continuous circulation of materials in the economy. The creative sector, known for its innovation and dynamism, also faces challenges related to waste production. This study explores the application of circular economy principles in craft and artisan makers' organizations within the creative sector.