Title: Analysing supporting mechanisms, cultural shaping and incentives for circular economy: the case of local governments

Authors: Ilias Makris; Sotiris Apostolopoulos; Panagiotis Dimitrakopoulos

Addresses: Department of Accounting and Finance, University of the Peloponnese, 24100, Antikalamos, Kalamata, Greece ' Department of Economics and Business, Neapolis University Pafos, Pafos 8042, Cyprus ' Department of Accounting and Finance, University of the Peloponnese, 24100 Kalamata, Greece

Abstract: This research examines the effectiveness of local government policies regarding the circular economy in two directions: in shaping an ecological culture for households and enterprises and in creating a favourable environment for incentives. It also identifies inefficiencies, failures and good practices. A qualitative research was carried out via semi-structured interviews of twelve local self-administrative officials responsible for policy making on circularity. Findings indicate the impact of local-self administrative authority policies on citizens, households and enterprises, identifying strengths and weaknesses. It also suggests interventions towards the formation and consolidation of a strong ecological culture on circular economy issues, with emphasis on information networks and proposes interventions that are related to strengthening incentives for households and enterprises to participate in circularity. The results of the research can be used by European, national and local bodies who have the responsibility of developing policies for the circular economy.

Keywords: circular economy; shaping culture; local-self administration; local policies; Greece.

DOI: 10.1504/IER.2024.139254

Interdisciplinary Environmental Review, 2024 Vol.23 No.3, pp.218 - 235

Received: 28 Jul 2023
Accepted: 23 Sep 2023
Published online: 28 Jun 2024 *