For Circular Economy Innovation, Look to the Global South

"Most corporate circular economy strategies focus on incremental improvements in products and operations, overlooking transformative innovations emerging from grassroots communities."

"These local initiatives-driven by necessity and resource constraints-offer scalable solutions for waste reduction, supply chain resilience, and environmental and social leadership."

Most corporate circular economy strategies prioritize incremental improvements in products and operations, leaving large opportunities unaddressed. Grassroots communities develop transformative innovations out of necessity and limited resources, creating practical methods for repair, reuse, remanufacturing, and local material loops. These local initiatives generate scalable solutions that can significantly reduce waste, lower dependency on distant suppliers, and increase supply chain resilience through localized sourcing and networks. Grassroots approaches also foster environmental benefits and social leadership by empowering communities, creating local jobs, and spreading low-cost sustainable practices. Incorporating these community-driven models into corporate strategies multiplies impact and accelerates systemic transitions toward a circular economy.

Read at Harvard Business Review