Circular Economy and MSMEs

A Systematic Literature Review on the Transition to Circular Business Models for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Reviews 58 peer-reviewed articles (2018–2022) on how SMEs transition to circular business models (CBMs). Finds growing scholarly interest in CBMs, with most work focusing on framework development rather than empirical validation. Highlights the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of CBM adoption.

Peer-Reviewed Journal Article

Vimalnath, P., Settembre-Blundo, D., Taisch, M., & Perano, M. (2023). A systematic literature review on the transition to circular business models for small and medium-sized enterprises. Sustainability, 15(12), 9352.

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and the Circular Economy: Leveraging Ecosystem Strategies for Circular Business Model Implementation

Examines how SMEs can leverage circular ecosystem strategies — networks of interdependent actors pursuing a shared circular value proposition — to overcome resource and legitimacy constraints in CE adoption. Relevant for designing MSME support programs that go beyond individual enterprise interventions.

Peer-Reviewed Journal Article

Reim, W., Tabares, S., & Parida, V. (2025). Small and medium-sized enterprises and the circular economy: Leveraging ecosystem strategies for circular business model implementation. Journal of Macromarketing.

A Thematic Review on Circular Economy Practices Among SMEs

Thematic review identifying key drivers, barriers, and enablers of CE practices among SMEs. Highlights that internal factors (leadership, innovation, organizational culture) are critical for CE uptake, while financial constraints and low awareness remain major obstacles — particularly in developing country contexts.

Conference Paper / Review

Ahmad, N., Mahmood, A., & others. (2023). A thematic review on circular economy practices among SMEs. European Proceedings of Social and Behavioural Sciences.

Empowering ASEAN MSMEs to Embrace Circular Economy

Opinion and analysis piece examining how MSMEs in ASEAN — representing 85% of employment and 44.8% of regional GDP — can contribute to the circular economy transition. Features the Bambuhay case (Philippines) as an example of a CE-driven MSME. Discusses ASEAN policy dialogues, the ASEAN SME Academy, and climate change guidelines for SMEs.

Commentary / Analysis

Hourn, K. (2023, June 26). Empowering ASEAN MSMEs to embrace circular economy. Phnom Penh Post.