What is the problem/issue being addressed?
The problem/issue being addressed is centered on how entrepreneurship contributes to a transition to the circular economy by identifying enablers and barriers to unleashing circular economy entrepreneurship.
Why is it important for society?
Sustainability is a global concern. But efforts to address the issues of sustainability has been focused on existing firms at a global level. However, entrepreneurial ventures can play a very significant role in enhancing a transition to a circular economy through the exploitation and creation of opportunities germane to such a transition. Circular economy entrepreneurship if promoted, is a major opportunity to achieve sustainability by increasing resource productivity, addressing environmental issues and generating employment. However, the fulfillment of the potential of the circular economy therefore hinges on the emergence of a new generation of entrepreneurs that operate in accordance with the circularity logic. At present, very little is known about how entrepreneurs build new ventures that create and support a circular economy whilst being economically viable and competitive. This study is therefore important to society because it will provide insights, information, knowledge and guidance that will accelerate a transition to a circular economy through entrepreneurship.
What are the overall objectives?
The overall objectives of the project include the following:
• To contribute to the transition to a circular economy through entrepreneurship by identifying the enablers and barriers to this type of entrepreneurship in Denmark.
• Map, evaluate and compare existing circular entrepreneurship businesses in various sectors and regions in Denmark.
• Identify enabling and constraining factors and conditions in exploiting or creating entrepreneurial opportunities and developing business models taking into account the differences across sectors, markets, institutional and sectorial aspects, and business models.
• Contribute to the development of circular economy entrepreneurship as an emerging academic field and to provide the validity and the rigor required to establish the field.
• To develop the competencies and professional values necessary for the researcher to become an attractive candidate for an academic position in Europe and as a recognized expert in the field of circular economy entrepreneurship.