Interdisciplinary Perspectives on the Circular Economy: An Empirical Evidence

Abstract

The circular economy is a transformational concept that demands interdisciplinary collaboration for effective sustainable resource management, moving beyond previous siloed systems. The study reveals significant variations in circular economy awareness and adoption across disciplines, with engineering and environmental sciences showing higher engagement compared to management and social sciences. Interdisciplinary collaboration emerges as a critical enabler, yet barriers such as siloed knowledge structures and communication gaps persist, underscoring the need for integrated training programs. These insights contribute to a unified framework for fostering cross-disciplinary synergies in the execution of the circular economy. Through a survey of professionals, professors, and students across sectors, the study examines interdisciplinary viewpoints on the circular economy. Using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, it examines the understanding of circular economy principles, perceived advantages and limitations, and existing activities. The study aims to identify knowledge-practice discrepancies, determine the facilitators and barriers of interdisciplinary collaboration, and furnish policymakers and educators with insights to enhance circular economy activities.