Publication
Title
Modelling the circular economy : introducing a supply chain equilibrium approach
Author
Abstract
The circular economy (CE) has gained prominence in recent years in government and business policies, as well as academic research. Yet, its alleged wholesomeness is increasingly questioned and few quantitative studies include both the outer (e.g. recycling) and inner circles (e.g. reduce or reuse), respectively the ex-ante least and most efficient CE strategies. By developing a supply chain equilibrium model, based on general equilibrium theory, this paper presents a modelling framework where a product-service system is introduced as a circular alternative to conventional products. Through generalised prices that cover inner and outer circle variables, targeted economic and fiscal policy measures affect overall price levels and, by consequence, operational levels of the supply chain. The rationale behind this approach relies on combining material and economic efficiency by integrating material/product life cycles with market interactions. To illustrate its performance, the model examines the rollout of a reusable plastic bottle initiative in Belgium. The results show that if circular products are perceived as substitutes for conventional products, well-targeted policies can reduce material use substantially. Furthermore, coordinating circular policies along the supply chain can improve their outcomes. However, the absence of CE data impedes model development and risks undermining the validity of the results.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Ecological economics. - Amsterdam, 1989, currens
Publication
Amsterdam : 2022
ISSN
0921-8009 [print]
1873-6106 [online]
DOI
10.1016/J.ECOLECON.2022.107451
Volume/pages
197 (2022) , p. 1-12
Article Reference
107451
Medium
E-only publicatie
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Research group
Publication type
Subject
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Creation 22.03.2024
Last edited 25.04.2024
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