A Theoretical Framework for Circular Processes and Circular Impacts Through a Comprehensive Review of Indicators.

This paper helps clarify what we really mean by a “circular economy” by separating the actions we take (circular processes) from the impacts we hope to achieve (circular impacts). By reviewing and organizing circularity indicators, it offers a clear framework that can help researchers, businesses, and policymakers better measure and improve circular practices.

Garcia-Saravia Ortiz-de-Montellano, C., & van der Meer, Y. (2022). A Theoretical Framework for Circular Processes and Circular Impacts Through a Comprehensive Review of Indicators. Global Journal of Flexible Systems Management 2022 23:2, 291–314. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40171-022-00300-5

The CIRCULAR pathway: a new educational methodology for exploratory circular value chain redesign.

This study introduces the "CIRCULAR pathway," an eight-step educational approach designed to teach students about circular economy principles through the redesign of real-world products and value chains. Implemented with over 250 business engineering students at Maastricht University, the methodology supports the understanding of system-wide sustainability challenges and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for driving circular transitions.

Garcia-Saravia Ortiz-De-Montellano, C., Ghannadzadeh, A., & van der Meer, Y. (2023). The CIRCULAR pathway: a new educational methodology for exploratory circular value chain redesign. Frontiers in Sustainability, 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/frsus.2023.1197659

How can the circular economy support the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? A comprehensive analysis.

This study explores how circular economy practices can advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By analyzing 27 circular strategies across all 17 SDGs, the research identifies seven key pathways that effectively link circular actions to global sustainability goals. The findings highlight both the opportunities and challenges in aligning circular economy initiatives with broader social and environmental objectives.

Garcia-Saravia Ortiz-De-Montellano, C., Samani, P., & van der Meer, Y. (2023). How can the circular economy support the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? A comprehensive analysis. Sustainable Production and Consumption, 40. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spc.2023.07.003

How Can We Promote the Circular Economy? A Perspective on Current Developments, Challenges and Indicators.

This chapter introduces a framework to help policymakers and businesses transition toward a more circular economy. Using the plastic packaging industry as a case study, it breaks down its biggest challenges across the value chain. It also shows how different strategies and indicators can be applied at different system levels to keep materials in use longer, reduce waste, and support sustainability goals.

Serafini, M., Garcia Saravia Ortiz De Montellano, C., & van der Meer, Y. (2024). How Can We Promote the Circular Economy? A Perspective on Current Developments, Challenges and Indicators. Studio Europa Maastricht. https://cris.maastrichtuniversity.nl/en/publications/how-can-we-promote-the-circular-economy-a-perspective-on-current-