Challenges and Opportunities of The Circular Economy for Sustainability Based on Reverse Logistics

Abstract

Goal: This article's main objective is to analyze the trends and challenges associated with the circular economy (CE) and reverse logistics (RL), with an emphasis on RL's role as a fundamental component of the CE. Theoretical framework: The study's theoretical basis focused on the dimensions and analytical categories of the circular economy and reverse logistics as fundamental elements of environmental sustainability. The analysis considered reverse logistics an integral part of the circular economy to identify its challenges and opportunities. Method and material: The method used was bibliographic. Data were collected from the Google Scholar, Elsevier, and Scielo databases to construct answers to three guiding questions related to a) the trends of the circular economy that allow understanding its integrative vision, the role of reverse logistics in the circular economy, and what are the challenges in implementing the circular economy. Twenty-eight articles on CE and 18 on RL were selected. The definition of the sample considered criteria of relevance, timeliness, and academic impact in articles published in the last fifteen years in high-impact journals. Furthermore, the studies were assessed for their thematic relevance, methodological robustness, and contribution to the development of the field of study. The results were generated using semantic and content analyses. Results and Conclusion: The results found were that a) the trends of the circular economy are the regeneration of resources as a central priority, design is now occupying a central place in sustainability, and the change from ownership to performance, which structure the new human mentality; b) the role of reverse logistics in the circular economy is to promote sustainability in business in practice, mainly through legal structuring, as is the case of the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS); and c) the main challenges in implementing the circular economy are the lack of understanding of its principles and the lack of cooperation between organizations, governments and consumers. Research implications: It is necessary to start legally structuring and practicing reverse logistics now so that the collective mentality can soon collaborate effectively with sustainability. Originality/value: The study shows that the degree of collaboration between governments, organizations, and consumers is crucial for overcoming the challenges and seizing the opportunities of reverse logistics.