A model-based Approach to assess the Circularity of Product-Service Systems

Abstract

The principles of circular economy (CE) are widely recognized as a solution for the challenges arising through climate change and shortage of resources. Product-Service Systems (PSS) are expected to have a higher degree of circularity compared to standalone products. To exploit the potentials of PSS towards circularity, different CE strategies need to be considered. Those CE strategies, such as remanufacturing or reuse, can have large deviations in their resulting effects for PSS providers. To quantify the possible impacts of different circularity strategies for PSS, a novel assessment method based on system dynamics modelling is presented in this paper.With the proposed method, the effects of different CE strategies on material demands, unavoidable waste and PSS longevity can be quantified. Thereby, CE strategies for PSS become comparable and their benefits can be measured. The method is directed to scholars as well as PSS providers to assess the circularity of PSS and support decision making in PSS design and realization.