Company Evolution Toward Circularity: A Business Monitoring Framework of Circular Economy Implementation Based on Transition Phases

The circular economy (CE), focused on material preservation, improves resource management and is therefore essential for companies, which are primary producers of goods and services. Effective CE implementation necessitates robust monitoring systems to evaluate the tangible value generated from economic and human resources investments. Current company‐level CE metrics suffer from a lack of standardization regarding measured aspects, their classification, and temporal application in terms of CE maturity. This presents a challenge, as CE implementation requires organizational learning processes supported by a clear understanding of sequential steps, enabling companies to determine their current position, anticipate subsequent actions, and understand transitional adjustments. This study introduces a monitoring framework that integrates existing indicators within a structured transition model, spanning from the initial integration of governance structures to the final goal of reducing resource use impact. Validation was conducted through a Delphi study involving experts from industry, federations, and academia. The framework delineates three distinct phases preceding the achievement of circularity effects, each defined by specific characteristics and relevant company‐level indicators. The analysis further reviews existing literature categorizations and evaluates indicator individual parameters based on their relevance and feasibility, providing a comprehensive foundation for their inclusion or exclusion in the proposed monitoring approach.