Understanding the role of institutional intermediaries in the emergence of the circular economy

Abstract

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Drivers and barriers in the institutionalisation of circular economy practices in food supply chains: A review

“…While institutional theory can be used to explain the state of the CE, Tremblay and Hoberg (2019) argue that the transformation towards a CE requires the active involvement of stakeholders, organisations, and governments, as well as the creation of institutional frameworks that support it. Fischer et al (2021) examined the process of formation of the institutional field of the CE, focusing on the role of institutional intermediaries and the deep institutional processes required to foster socioeconomic transitions beyond business strategies and practices.…”

“…To address the complexities of implementing the CE approach, scholars have turned to institutional theory, which examines how institutions shape individual and organisational behaviour over time. Within the context of food waste and the CE, institutional theory offers valuable insights (Allen et al, 2021; Do et al, 2022; Fischer & Pascucci, 2017; Fischer et al, 2021; Levänen et al, 2018; Ouro‐Salim & Guarnieri, 2022; Schulz et al, 2019). However, despite the growing interest in CE, its institutionalisation is still in its early stages globally (Guarnieri et al, 2023).…”

Motivations and identities of “grassroots” circular entrepreneurs: An initial exploration

“…The entrepreneurial vision is outcome‐oriented and contributes to the entrepreneurial identity because it is formalized based on the entrepreneurial context, objectives, and the strategic direction (Block et al, 2015; Ghalwash et al, 2017; Morris et al, 2016). In addition, the business network interactions are relevant because the entrepreneurial identity shapes through comparison and self‐evaluation against chosen frames of reference (e.g., community, society, competitors; Fauchart & Gruber, 2011; Fischer et al, 2021; Navis & Glynn, 2011; Rigg & O'Dwyer, 2012). Apart from distinct societal groups, the other two dimensions of the triple bottom line, that is, economy/market and environment, are viewed as part of the external business network of a circular founder (Fassin, 2009; Slaper & Hall, 2011).…”

“…In addition, the business network interactions are relevant because the entrepreneurial identity shapes through comparison and selfevaluation against chosen frames of reference (e.g., community, society, competitors;Fauchart & Gruber, 2011;Fischer et al, 2021;Navis & Glynn, 2011;Rigg & O'Dwyer, 2012). Apart from distinct societal groups, the other two dimensions of the triple bottom line, that is, economy/market and environment, are viewed as part of the external business network of a circular founder (Fassin, 2009;Slaper & Hall, 2011).…”

“…This level of alignment on the “how” is unprecedented and makes grassroots circular entrepreneurs one of the few distinct groups in the context of sustainable entrepreneurship research which—overall—is still emergent, fragmented and lacks typological delineation (Gast et al, 2017; Patzelt & Shepherd, 2011; Schaltegger & Wagner, 2011). Additionally, due to the systemic character of CE innovation, founders of CSUs tend to build or navigate highly uncertain, complex and radically new business environments (e.g., in terms of value co‐creation, reverse logistics, and waste/by‐product declarations; Konietzko et al, 2020; Fischer et al, 2021; Schaltegger & Wagner, 2011). The scope of this research does not include circular entrepreneurship within existing organizations but has a distinct focus on independent founders of CSUs.…”