Circular Business Model Maturation in Logistics

Circular Economy
The transition to a circular sustainable economy requires new, circular, business models. Logistics plays an important role as an integrated perspective on forward and reverse logistics is essential in realizing a circular economy. The objective of this research is to determine how circular business models in logistics develop and mature.

Objective

Questions that this project will answer are:

  • What challenges and opportunities are there for my firm in the transition?
  • How to use circular economy principles in developing a sustainable value proposition?
  • How can we support our customers with product lifecycle management services? 

Results

In this project we develop decision support models that help firms in their progress to higher maturity levels from different perspectives such as forward and reverse logistics as well as the improvement of the valorisation of return flows and waste streams in relation to a firm’s internal logistics.

Duration

01 May 2020 - 31 December 2021

Approach

Four work packages are developed that are structured around the diagnostic and prescriptive stages of progressing from current maturity levels to the next.
The first work package focuses on maturity levels and capabilities of circular business models. The second and third work packages study forward and reverse logistics. The fourth work package looks at the internal logistical processes related to return flows.

HU researchers involved in the research

  • Pascal Ravesteijn | Professor | Process innovation and information systems
    Pascal Ravesteijn
    • Professor
    • Research group: Process Innovation and Information Systems
  • Arjen Wierikx
    Arjen Wierikx
    • Researcher
    • Research group: Process Innovation and Information Systems
  • Marja Exalto
    Marja Exalto
    • Researcher
    • Research group: Process Innovation and Information Systems

Collaboration with knowledge partners

  • NHL Stenden Hogeschool
  • TU Eindhoven
  • Wageningen Universiteit