Case studies

A case study is a generic term for a knowledge item.

Case studies can take the form of

  • business case (e.g. a startup that has a take back system for mobile phones),
  • a policy case (e.g. a regional tax break for recycling),
  • a report (e.g. a research initiative or a journal article consisting of analysis or insights)

Every case study must pertain to at least one circular strategy, For more information about circular strategies see the framework of Key elements of the circular economy.

Case studies don't have to be new; good cases can also have been in existence for years, especially if they have measurable impacts that show the success of a circular economy.

Case study requirements

Must
  • Be about circular economy - be categorised under the Key elements of the circular economy framework
  • Contain an action or action plan to deliver an impact
Should
  • Be close to being operational (at least on a pilot basis)
  • Specify implementing business organisations or policy-implementing governments
  • Include impact metrics
  • Have a link to more information on the case
Could
  • Be translatable to another context
  • Describe the cost and investment that was required
Wont
  • Have no proven or scientifically based outcomes (white papers or research with a projected impact are acceptable)
  • Be a business initiative in a purely conceptual phase
  • Be promotional for a business, even if it is circular. A case is considered promotional when:
    • it describes the business proposition instead of a factual impact or an outcome of the business initiative.
    • is written in the first person
    • uses unsupported superlatives