Chapter 7: Conclusion & implications
7.3 Future research
Based on the limitations highlighted above, we formulate some directions for future research for both the academic field of circular economy, and the development of the theory of fields.
Firstly, to expand on the provided interpretation of the strategic action field of circular economy in Europe, we suggest that a more in-depth study of the field is needed. A more comprehensive understanding of the field can be done by enlarging the sample of actors included in the analysis and conducting more in-depth interviews. To shed more light on the embeddedness of the circular economy field in a larger environment, and its dependencies with a web of other fields, we recommend in-depth interviews with actors from governmental organizations or businesses (leveraging circular solutions, innovative business models, technological innovations etc.).
Secondly, academic research needs to contribute to bridging the gap between strategy and implementation. There is significant work to do across industry, government and academia to make this transition happen successfully.
Therefore, it is not productive to spend a disproportionate amount of time discussing the merits of one definition over another one. Ultimately, testing these ideas through practical implementation will offer the most fruitful insights to guide conceptual reiterations.
Thirdly, we argue that the theory of fields limits social skill only to its capacity to fashion settlements and forge winning coalitions. However, our empirical evidence points to the relevance of frame management for achieving systemic change. Based on this contribution to the theory, we suggest that more research is needed to scrutinize this concept in order to provide more depth to the theory of fields.
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