Circular Economy: Barriers and Levers Promoting Transformation (Case Study Analysis)

Innovative projects, connecting the circular economy with sustainable territorial development, promote multiple synergic effects, thus helping to dynamite the various aspects of sustainable development – economic, social, and ecological. In order for such projects to succeed, however, some conditions must be in place at the same time. The aim of this research is, based on some projects selected according to a set of criteria, to analyze the levers and barriers to developing new business models built on the circular economy principles. An exhaustive study of each of these projects and a comparative analysis allow us to derive some common features and develop a typology that makes it possible to identify and shed light on the new requirements, conditions, and factors for the successful realization of projects of similar type. Also, concrete recommendations are given concerning the necessary support from national and local public authorities. The study is based on primary and secondary sources and applies the causal approach, analysis, synthesis, and survey.