Key elements in assessing circular economy implementation in small and medium‐sized enterprises

Abstract

The circular economy has become an important issue in recent years because itmakes sustainable development feasible by creating value in the economy and byclosing the energy and materials loops. However, since most companies continueto operate under a linear model, it is particularly important to start providingcompanies with tools that facilitate their shift to the circular paradigm. The mainobjective of this research is to establish the key elements that are necessary forassessing the level of circular economy implementation. To that end, the Delphimethod is used to validate and define the key elements of three categories: circulareconomy fields of action, industrial symbiosis, and environmental certifications. Asa result, this study identifies the key elements that assess the degree of circulareconomy implementation and that allows small and medium‐sized enterprisesto understand where they are and what they need to do to improve theirperformance.