The Paradigm of the Circular Economy: Barriers and Enabling Factors for Companies

The paradigm of circular economy underscores that the “take-make-dispose” model of production and consumption is no longer sustainable. The chapter introduces the concept of circular economy, presenting its theoretical and conceptual foundations, along with the various European policies that have prioritized this transition. The shift toward a circular economy model, which considers businesses as one of the key players, is not immune to barriers. These barriers include technological constraints, regulatory complexities, and cultural resistance, all of which hinder the adoption of circular strategies in businesses. Among the main barriers, one of the most significant is the financial challenge, exemplified by the high initial investment costs necessary to support the transition in businesses. In this context, crowdfunding is presented as an enabling tool for the circular transition in companies.