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Quality of Working Life in the Circular Economy: the Case of Self-employment in the Repair Sector

Author

Listed:
  • Heather A. Rogers

    (University of Hull)

  • Pauline Deutz

    (University of Hull)

  • Tomas B. Ramos

    (CENSE, Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research, NOVA University Lisbon)

  • Andrew E. G. Jonas

    (University of Hull)

Abstract

Establishing a circular economy is assumed by some definitions to include social benefits such as employment opportunities; however, research beyond quantitative job creation projections is only recently emerging. While the repair sector is well-established, it has been suggested that increasing circularity implies significantly expanded demand for this service. This article uses five case studies of repair workers, based on semi-structured interviews, to explore self-employment in the repair service sector. Findings indicate that the stresses of work in the circular economy are similar to those of other fields, with self-employment offering opportunities both for job satisfaction and additional pressures. Research needs to give more consideration to the social implications of a circular transition—work may be a necessity for a satisfactory life experience (for most people), but it is under-ambitious to assume that having work is sufficient to achieve that, or should be the limit of ambition for a sustainability transition.

Suggested Citation

  • Heather A. Rogers & Pauline Deutz & Tomas B. Ramos & Andrew E. G. Jonas, 2024. "Quality of Working Life in the Circular Economy: the Case of Self-employment in the Repair Sector," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 4(2), pages 1613-1630, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:circec:v:4:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s43615-023-00343-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s43615-023-00343-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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