Governing Circular Resource Use: How Institutions Shape Collective Action for Circular Economy Across Systems
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Abstract:
Natural resource scarcity is giving rise to new forms of resource governance and so enhancing the transition to more sustainable resource use. One key development is the growth of circular economy systems, where residual resources are reused in closed-loop systems. This requires an understanding of how diverse actors collectively govern the sustainable use and sharing of privately owned residual and waste resources. This presentation is based on two different articles and draws on insights on from several different case studies (in Finland, USA, Spain and Turkey), as well as theories on polycentric governance and institutional theory. It attempts to unpack how this type of collective governance of resources in circular economy develops over time, and how both formal and informal institutions can complement each other but also clash in these governance systems. The aim is to promote understanding of circular economy management across broader systems of actors, including actors from various sectors and across global supply chains.
Bio:
Samuli Patala works as an Associate Professor in the Aalto University School of Business in Finland. His research focuses on in how businesses and other organizations address sustainability challenges. His specific interests relate to management and governance of sustainable resource use as well as innovation for sustainability. He has focused especially on understanding the role of cross-sector collaboration and collective action in advancing sustainable resource use and innovation, as well as the role of institutions in sustainability transitions. Much of his research has focused on contexts of circular economy, renewable energy and sustainable water use. He has published in various journals including Journal of Management Studies, Organization Studies, Journal of International Business Studies and the International Journal of Management Reviews.