Some studies of the circular economy in small and medium enterprises

Abstract

A circular economy is a system in which resources are redeployed or reused, and waste becomes an input for further production. This perception is due to the rapid urbanization, climate change, soil pollution, technological advances and the growing need to use limited natural resources. According to a World Bank study, 90 percent of the world’s businesses and 50 percent of jobs are small and medium-sized enterprises. It is estimated that 600 million new jobs will be added in 2030, and that 7 out of 10 jobs will be created by small and medium industries. In order to meet the growing needs, intensive support and policy development of small and medium industry remains the priority goal of the countries of the world. However, it is important to develop this growing small and medium business with the concept of circular economy and sustainable development. Therefore, research and academic activities on the circular economy in small and medium industries are gaining strength. In this study, the main research works on the circular economy in small and medium industries conducted at the country level are reviewed.