Business Model Innovation in the Circular Economy

The transformation to circular, sustainable value chains poses major challenges for many companies. However, the biggest challenge is often not a lack of know-how or determination, but the question of "getting started", of how and where.

For the path to a more sustainable future, the way in which we create, communicate and use values, for example in the form of products and services, must change fundamentally. In the process, the economic, ecological and social levels of sustainability must be given equal consideration in order to keep any trade-offs to a minimum and to be able to make optimum use of synergy effects.

The Circular Economy describes a new paradigm in the way we try to achieve sustainability. It forces a shift from a linear production and consumption model to a regenerative, circular approach. This new way of creating value enables the creation of a more sustainable and resilient economy, where resources are used in more efficient and effective ways, the development of innovative solutions is encouraged, and progress benefits both people and the planet.

An innovative methodology has been developed by researchers at Fraunhofer CCPE that combines current scientific knowledge in the field of circular economy with extensive expertise in sustainability. The methodology aims to transform linear business models into circular business models and to promote sustainable value creation and use. In doing so, the developed methodology supports companies from the first step towards a circular economy to the development of comprehensive, circular business models. Completely independent of the company's level of knowledge or starting point, the methodology offers an opportunity for individual support on the path to circular business - always with sustainability in mind.

The goal of the developed methodology, is to reduce environmental impact, increase resource efficiency and create completely new business opportunities by innovating existing business models and products. The methodology is a crucial step towards a sustainable future and provides companies with a practical, tailored roadmap for the transition to a circular economy.