Systems resilience and SME multilevel challenges: A place-based conceptualization of the circular economy

Mickey Howard, Steffen Böhm and Dan Eatherley

Journal of Business Research, 2022, vol. 145, issue C, 757-768

Abstract: This article presents a place-based systems perspective of the sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises, exploring the multilevel challenges in transitioning towards a circular economy. We develop a conceptual model showing that, as circular economy systems and their resilience reside at the intersection of business, societal and ecosystem value, place-based coordination and cross-institutional organizing matter. Using the case of Devon and Cornwall in the south-west of England, we argue SMEs who recognize the role of placed-based societal identities and ecosystems not only become more resilient, but their considerations for community welfare and labour are intertwined with geographic-specific natural capital and the circular economy. Yet place-based circular systems are characterized by tensions and trade-offs, suggesting survival of one is dependent on the circulation of resources in another. Our contribution is to theorize the role of SMEs in place-based circular system resilience, understanding the organizational mechanisms of local cooperation and value sharing.

Keywords: Sustainability; Triple bottom line; Place; Circular economy; SME; Systems resilience (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:145:y:2022:i:c:p:757-768

DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2022.03.014

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