Forging sustainable circularity: exploring motivations and challenges in establishing circular biomass waste management in a peripheral region

Siri Jakobsen, Irina Isaeva and Jenny Sofie Kjemphei Larsen

Chapter 7 in Research Handbook of Innovation in the Circular Bioeconomy, 2025, pp 103-116 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: To successfully implement a circular bioeconomy (CBE), effective municipal solid waste (MSW) management plays a crucial role. Circular MSW practices depend on various factors that intersect with the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, environmental, and social. In particular, MSW management is influenced by regional dynamics, including the number of households, tax revenue per capita, infrastructure and distances between citizens. Additionally, peripheral regions are known to have long transportation routes and are sparsely populated, and experience obstacles unknown in urban areas. Hence, to achieve CBE goals, it is essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of MSW organizations operating in peripheral regions. In this study, we conducted a multiple case study involving three MSW organizations in Northern Norway and Sweden. Our investigation explored the motivations and challenges these organizations encounter while transitioning to circular practices. Key findings highlight that the motivations and challenges for circular initiatives are closely tied to all three sustainability dimensions. Additionally, regional dynamics significantly impact economic challenges, while also serving as a motivation within the social dimension. These insights have significant implications for governmental circularity policies. Policymakers should focus on mitigating economic risks in peripheral regions to facilitate a successful transition toward circularity.

Keywords: Circular economy; Circular bioeconomy; Sustainability; Waste management; Peripheral region; Municipal solid waste (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035307951
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