ABSTRACT
Planet Earth is at a crossroads. On the one hand, over 4 billion people, many of whom live in developing countries, face unmet needs in core areas such as food, energy, housing and transport. On the other hand, meeting the needs of these large populations poses a threat to the finite resources available on the planet. The transition to a more balanced interplay of environmental and economic systems can be achieved through closing-the-loop of production patterns within an economic system. But such a transition will require innovation, and moreover an approach to innovation that is itself frugal, flexible and inclusive. Thus, there are obvious and strong links between frugal innovation and the circular economy. This begins with learning how to create value out of what others consider "waste". Thus, entrepreneurs as well as urban utilities can lead the transition towards a circular economy and become resource stewards by employing frugal innovation techniques and mindsets.
