Circular Business Models – A study to classify existing and emerging forms of value retention and creation
Updated on 19.09.2023
This Whitepaper on Circular Business Models is a study carried out to classify existing and emerging forms of value and retention and creation. It discusses resource models, design models, lifetime extension models, platform sharing models, product-as-a service models, end-of-life models and lifecycle models with respect to moving towards a circular economy.
More information
The Whitepaper on Circular Business Models consists of three parts:
- The first part discusses the background and explains the circular economy, the connection with sustainability, business models, and an overview of circular business models (CBMs).
- The second part provides an overview of the developed classification of CBMs and describes each basic type according to its characteristics. As a result, it identifies seven knowledge maps.
- The third part looks briefly at the reliability of the classification and then at the aspects of change management in working on and with a CBM.
The paper looks at many examples from across Europe, such as companies in the Netherlands that use circular business models.
Relevance for Circular Systemic Solutions
Cities and regions might find this report relevant for Circular Systemic Solutions because the CBMs cover multiple sectors and focus on whole value chains rather than parts of value chains within these sectors. Consequently, the report may support entrepreneurs in making their CBMs leaner and financially viable.
e.g. chemicals, cosmetics, bio-based industries
e.g. electrical engineering, furniture and interior, textile and fashion
e.g. B2B services
e.g. healthcare