Strategies for Social Inclusion in Circular Economy

Abstract

In this chapter, the aim is to answer how circular practices could embrace social inclusion and address the SDGs. A framework is proposed for analysing the priority stakeholders included in circular economy practices, their engagement based on circular justice literature and upgrading reached by them. Upgrading is understood as improvements or incremental innovation in terms of product and process, which is called economic upgrading, and also, environmental and social upgrading. Empirically, two case studies are proposed to elucidate the concepts. The first case is a waste management company specialized in electronic and electrical equipment. The second is nongovernmental organization from the fashion sector. The outcomes demonstrate that workers are the main stakeholders affected by circular practices with social inclusion. In both cases, there are indications of economic and social upgrading of workers. In terms of circular justice, the main result is the engagement of organization in recognition of rights. There is no evidence of distributional justice in both cases. Finally, the main SDGs addressed are no poverty (SDG 1), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) and reduced inequalities (SDG 10).