ABSTRACT

Innovative, groundbreaking design principles stand at the roots of the Circular Economy (CE) system. The CE has rapidly evolved from theory to practice, with several companies across industries embracing circular solutions. And as more and more firms begin to recognize the potential benefits of circularity, demand for a coherent and simple framework for action – one that all companies can rely upon when commencing their transition – is rising. Before delving into a detailed analysis of the CE framework, it is necessary to spend some time on Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) and their connections with CE principles. An EMS needs to align with the core organizational processes and strategic decision-making of the organization, ultimately fitting with the drivers that guide the company’s business strategy. In such a new context of enhanced focus on strategic thinking, external collaboration, and top-management involvement, the adoption of CE considerations within an existing EMS is clearly favoured.