Barriers for a circular Swedish industry

Why is it that the benefits of a circular economy are expected to be large, both economically and environmentally, but the implementation is slow?

In our own previous research, we have observed that various barriers prevent the introduction of a circular economy.The goal of this project is, in collaboration with industries, to identify barriers - technological, market, institutional and social - to implement a circular economy.

The empirical part of the project is limited to a logically cohesive unit in the nearby mining, metal and rock material industry, whose industry organizations support the project and will help establish contact to companies.

An international outlook on barriers in these industries will also be made.The project is based on a combination of scientific methods.

Of particular importance are case studies of companies and interest groups, which will be studied through interviews with key persons and document analysis.

The project has an actor-centered strategy and is based on a mix of scientific methods from economics, political science, and sociology.The societal benefits of the project mainly go to the industries studied, but lessons with external validity should arise and are well in line with Agenda 2030.

The project creates a greater knowledge of barriers that prevent the introduction of a circular economy in Swedish industry. The environmental benefits should also be significant if the country´s heaviest industries could be more circular.