Integrating circular economy and frugal innovation for social inclusion: a multi-case study

Paulo Feitosa, Maria Clara Chinen Oliveira, Elvia Florencio Torres Ximenes and Roberta Souza Piao

Social Responsibility Journal, 2026, vol. 22, issue 6, 1339-1357

Abstract: PurposeThis study aims to propose a new framework that integrates circular economy (CE) strategies into frugal innovation (FI) to enhance social inclusion, particularly in underdeveloped markets, by demonstrating the potential for sustainable and socially equitable solutions across the product lifecycle.Design/methodology/approachThe research uses a qualitative approach, using multiple case studies supported by semi-structured interviews and secondary data, to investigate how the integration of CE principles within FI can promote social inclusion.FindingsThe findings show that combining CE and FI strategies can generate 27 social impacts, including job creation, improved living conditions and equitable access to affordable products, particularly benefiting low-income populations.Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s scope is limited to a specific set of case studies within the Brazilian context, and further research is necessary to test the framework’s applicability across diverse economic and geographic settings.Practical implicationsThe research offers practical insights for businesses and policymakers aiming to develop socially inclusive and resource-efficient products, especially for markets at the base of the pyramid.Social implicationsThe study emphasises the importance of affordable, accessible products in promoting social inclusion, reducing inequalities and fostering sustainable development in economically disadvantaged communities.Originality/valueThis study contributes a novel theoretical framework that addresses the gap in literature concerning the integration of FI and CE strategies, highlighting their combined potential to foster social inclusion.

Keywords: Frugal innovation; Circular economy; Social inclusion; Resource efficiency; Base of the pyramid (BoP) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:srjpps:srj-10-2024-0749

DOI: 10.1108/SRJ-10-2024-0749

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