Place-based circular society innovations

We are investigating circular society innovations

Duration of the project

1.10.2024. – 31.10.2027

Source of funding

UKRI Economic and Social Research Council

Total funding

1 478 903,25 €

We are exploring circular economy projects, in the Manchester area and beyond, where social justice and well-being are at the heart of the issue – circular economy social innovations. Circular economy advocates offer the circular economy as a more sustainable alternative to the linear economy, which uses resources to make products and produces waste. While the economic and environmental benefits of circular economy projects are targeted and highlighted, the social impacts remain poorly understood, vaguely defined and marginal, particularly in terms of social equality and equity. We explore how regions can become more equitable, inclusive and environmentally sustainable by developing, implementing and scaling up circular social innovations.

Our goals are:

• assess how policy, practitioners and projects are responding to sustainability challenges by developing and implementing place-based circular social innovations.
• assess which solutions can be co-developed on a large scale
• develop recommendations for policy makers, practitioners and civil society organisations to promote social innovation in the context of a place-based circular economy

We will use a variety of research methods to collect data on around 100 circular social innovations, of which 50 will be studied in depth. We will develop evidence-based recommendations for UK policy makers, practitioners and civil society organisations.