The Circular Rebound Tool: A tool to move companies towards more sustainable circular business models

Ankita Das*, Jan Konietzko, Nancy Bocken, Marc Dijk

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Companies design circular business models through experimentation. However, most companies do not consider the environmental impact of their new business model ideas during experimentation, an iterative phase of high uncertainty. Previous research shows that companies typically use ‘rules of thumb’ to estimate environmental impact in this stage due to limited time and reliable information to guide decision-making. This might prevent innovators from detecting unintended rebound effects that offset positive environmental gains of new business models. To mitigate this and let innovators think more profoundly about rebound effects during the circular business model experimentation phase, we propose an evidence-based business model ideation tool, the Circular Rebound Tool, designed around lifecycle thinking, the zero-waste hierarchy, and increased rebound effects awareness. The tool's development follows the design science research method, undergoing continuous improvement through 15 workshops. Our tool can help business innovators gain insights into the environmental impact of their early-stage business ideas.
Original languageEnglish
Article number200185
Number of pages24
JournalResources, Conservation & Recycling Advances
Volume20
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2023

Keywords

  • Business model tool
  • Circular business models
  • Circular economy
  • Environmental impact
  • Rebound effects

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