From schools of thought to an ecology of practices: Categorizing circular economy's futures

Abstract

AbstractIn response to pressing societal challenges, scholars are increasingly focusing on research aimed at fostering sustainable futures. We contribute to that discussion by theorizing the circular economy (CE) as an “ecology of practices.” The ecology of practices concept helps to make sense of a developing field that has been heavily practitioner‐driven. Through an analysis of the diverse CE practices in analytical and operational contexts, we investigate the roles, disciplinary influences, and visions for the future and categorize their trajectories. Drawing on the sociology of expectations, we consider the articulations of CE in practice, advocating for inclusive dialogue among stakeholders and collective engagement with ontological multiplicity in shaping CE futures. We propose a framework that contributes to broader debates in organization and management studies, emphasizing the significance of everyday practices in shaping sustainable futures beyond the realm of CE. In so doing, we focus on unpicking how sustainable futures are variously enacted as a way of enabling collaboration that might otherwise be hindered by disciplinary obligations.