Circular Design and Consumer Involvement in Circular Economy

Abstract

Abstract The circular economy is an approach to help reduce global sustainability pressures. In circular economy it is important to involve design from the beginning of the product lifecycle, including product ideation and material selection. Involvement of consumers and users into circular economy is very important and enables change in purchase patterns and product utilization. The paper methodology consists of a profound literature review and analysis in area of circular economy, circular design and consumer or user influence on circularity. The goal of the paper is to provide insights into the consumer involvement into a circular economy and changes in users’ behavior. The research results in discussion of design strategies to slow down “resource loops”, to close “resource loops”, and to “narrow material flow” to enhance circular economy and business models, as well as consumer involvement in circular economy. We outline desired consumer and user behavior leading to circular economy.