Comparative Study of Circular Economy Implementation in Manufacturing vs. Retail

Abstract

This paper compares circular economy (CE) adoption in manufacturing and retail sectors across Europe and Asia. Data from 150 firms highlight that manufacturing firms focus on resource efficiency, recycling, and product lifecycle extension, while retail firms emphasize sustainable packaging, reverse logistics, and customer engagement. Implementation barriers differ: manufacturing faces high capital investments, and retail encounters supply chain coordination challenges. The study provides sector-specific strategies for maximizing sustainability and profitability, highlighting the need for technology integration, stakeholder collaboration, and policy support to scale CE practices effectively.