The politics of justice in crafting Circular Economy narratives: Evidence from academics, network organisations and consultants

The socio-ecological crisis is present, driving the need for more solutions that shape systemic change. The narratives told shape these sustainability solutions; the Circular Economy (CE) is one such topic that is attracting more attention, which we explore as both a site for contestation and decontestation. We see that the CE must be positioned as one among many pathways that can be taken. Furthermore, the CE itself is termed an umbrella concept under which a multitude of narratives are being shaped. We start our inquiry from this vantage point, knowing that multiple pathways to sustainability exist, and within these multiple pathways, different narratives are used to tell the story of these solutions. This study aims to explore: How are varying degrees of (re)politicisation and depoliticisation presented in the narratives and practices of academics, network organisations, and ESG consultants? The approach is based on looking at the presence, lack and nuance between processes of repoliticisation and depoliticisation. The study comprises two distinct sets of original data. The ESG consultants' study is built upon 28 semi-structured interviews, made up of 685 minutes of original data collected, while the CENOs study is built upon 16 semi-structured interviews, including 396 minutes of recorded original primary data, and 628 minutes of secondary data collection. Overall, the thesis adds to our understanding of the sustainability transition, particularly illuminating the nuances of politicising mechanisms that operationalise the complexity and the problems in achieving a just sustainability transition. The argument shows the close relationship between repoliticisation and depoliticised mechanisms on the path toward the transition. Highlighting along the way (to answering the question) that nuances exist on the journey toward a more just transition. The nuances suggest that, practically, repoliticisation processes and actors need to be directive and aware of depoliticisation. Furthermore, the contribution to the literature on politicisation suggests that more politics is happening outside of the government and the purview of elected officials. The contribution offers that these nuanced mechanisms represent depoliticisation, representing a reformulation of the state, and, in kind, the reformulation of participation within the arena of the market.<p></p>

Author dc:creator

• Jamie Plaatjes (21042917)

• circular economy
• just transition
• organisation studies

Statement dc:rights

• All rights reserved
• Open Access after 2027-02-23

Identifier

10779/exe.31421687.v1

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:figshare.com:article/31421687