The authors explain that shifting from a linear to a circular bio-economy requires the development of new business models, particularly within the agrifood sector.
The researchers studied eight European cases that focus on valorizing agricultural waste and by-products by closing loops or cascading materials. Through interviews and site visits, the study identifies several critical factors that shape these innovations.
According to the findings, business model innovations depend on macro-environmental conditions, such as legal frameworks and market trends, as well as internal objectives like economic, environmental, or social goals.
The researchers also point out that these models are strongly linked to synergies with actors from different sectors and value co-creation through both organizational and technological advancements.
Ultimately, the authors conclude that achieving the most efficient use of agricultural waste requires radical, combined innovations and new business configurations rather than the linear strategies that remain dominant for economic reasons.
Learn more about this study: https://doi.org/10.1002/bse.2725
Reference:
Donner, M., & De Vries, H. (2021). How to innovate business models for a circular bio‐economy? Business Strategy and the Environment, 30(4), 1932–1947.