Circular community and shared views and values

Circularity: Building communities that close the loop

The transition to a circular economy is not just about new technology or smarter production, it is also about people. We are building an argument that the success of a circular economy depends on one key factor: a well-informed, interconnected community.

Therefore, we highlight three foundational support systems, called “envelopes”, that must surround and sustain a functioning circular model:

• Technology: tools, infrastructure, and technical knowledge
• Economics: financial mechanisms, services, and active consumers
• Education and Awareness: constant learning and public engagement

Together, these envelopes provide the structure a circular community needs, not only to function, but to thrive.

Figure 1: Integral scheme of circular community showing the structure of the units within their supportive envelops (for more see Marušić and Goličnik Marušić, 2025)

While technology is essential, every production process needs technical support, social and economic systems are equally critical. A healthy circular economy also requires: Strong financial and legal support systems, including accessible services and markets, and active and responsible consumer participation. However, the transformation will not last unless it is

Shared knowledge and capacities

At the heart of the circular community is knowledge-based collaboration. Whether it comes from science, industry, crafts, or tradition, knowledge is the thread that links people, sectors, and places together. Knowledge may originate from diverse fields and geographies, and its open exchange serves as the foundational link among community members. A circular community is thus not a closed system but an interconnected network, actively engaging with other communities to co-create solutions, share innovations, and build mutual capacity. A circular community does not have to grow from a specific place or actor. It can begin from wherever capacity already exists, whether it is a local repair business, a development team, or even a group of consumers who want to make a difference.

Figure 1: Integral scheme of circular community showing the structure of the units within their supportive envelops (for more see Marušić and Goličnik Marušić, 2025)

The values that hold the circular community together

We outline several core values that seem to help communities stay coherent and committed as they evolve. They are recognised as practical principles such as:

• Shared knowledge and learning: Open exchange of knowledge, training, and practices across boundaries.
• Circular products and materials: Designing out waste through regenerative product and material cycles.
• Sustainable consumption: Encouraging mindful consumption patterns that reduce resource demand.
• Sustainable production: Promoting low-impact, efficient, and responsible production systems.
• Elimination of waste and pollution (Zero Waste): Commitment to systems that prevent waste generation.
• Fair trade and sustainable markets: Ensuring economic systems that are equitable and environmentally sound.
• Community attachment and social justice: Building inclusive communities rooted in fairness, participation, and well-being.

By embracing these principles, circular communities can grow in both scale and depth, becoming more resilient, inclusive, and innovative over time.