The role of sustainable business networks in promoting a Circular Economy in Africa—A systematic literature review

In order to achieve transition toward a Circular Economy (CE), multiple stakeholder partnerships are required. Although the CE shows proven potential and impact, the implementation is still very low in developing and transition countries. The role of networks in promoting the CE is assessed, including the impact which network participation has on the implementation of a CE at company level. Although firm level capabilities can be enhanced by network participation, a lot of knowledge gaps exist regarding the orientation and structure of networks; governance models for networks and the high impact activities that can be implemented. A systematic literature review was undertaken to characterize the role of sustainable business networks in green industrial transformation. The approach to literature review included keyword search, title analysis, search title analysis, abstract analysis and systematic review of contents for full review of 50 research articles from Web of Science, Scopus and literature. Barriers, cognitions and challenges in the operation of sustainable business networks were clearly analyzed, including knowledge gaps existing in literature. Database search and document review was undertaken to determine the role and impact of sustainable business networks in promoting a CE in comparison to idiosyncratic organizations without any affiliation. The review enabled determination of the policies which promote sustainable business networks, network structure, governance, and success factors. We conclude that sustainable business networks have an impact on the CE transformation in selected African countries. Implementation success could be explained by contextual factors within sustainable business network boundaries.