Conceptualizing the Circular Economy (Revisited): An Analysis of 221 Definitions

Circular economy (CE) is based on reduction, reuse and recycling, regardless of whether it is conceptualized as a 3R framework covering the 3R dimensions of reduction, reuse, recycling, as a 4R framework that considers the 4R dimensions of reduction, reuse, recycling, recovery, or as an x-R framework that includes 4R.  CE offers a solution to the foreseeable scarcity of raw materials and increased CO₂ emissions leading to global shortages and tipping points in natural ecosystems.  In the past decade, use of the circular economy concept by scholars and practitioners has grown steadily and is interpreted and implemented in a variety of ways.  While multiple interpretations of CE can enrich scholarly perspectives, differentiation and fragmentation can also lead to the concept's misconception.