Evaluation of Micro-Level Circularity Indicators Using Agent-Based Modelling

As the circular economy (CE) concept gains relevance, there is an increased need for indicators to monitor and support the progress of CE. While micro-level indicators are particularly crucial in stimulating behavioral change among companies and consumers, the knowledge of how to design or select micro-level indicators to meet specific needs is limited, and no concrete method for evaluating micro-level indicators has been established. Furthermore, few studies have explored the link between micro-level circularity indicators and their macro-level impact. In order to contribute to the establishment of an evaluation method for micro-level indicators, in which they are evaluated for their impact on macro-level environmental sustainability, we first propose a framework to clarify the structural relationship between micro-level indicators and their macro-level impact. Then, we use the agent-based modelling technique to analyze a simple case of micro-level indicator implementation from a macro perspective.