Potential and Gaps of Sociomaterial Networks in the Global South to Transition to a Circular Economy

Abstract

We aim to identify the potential and gaps of the sociomaterial network for the circular economy in a mid-size city in the Global South. A qualitative assessment of the local informal recycling sector and the nascent circular economy stakeholders (human and non-human is used to assess the current network. The sociomaterial network in transformation has strengths that need to be reinforced but also significant gaps in how materials and relationships are valued in the transition to a CE. From a performative perspective there are several role gaps, such as reducing regulatory barriers to operate in a CE, actioning an extended producer responsibility and a value-based education. Circular transitions have mostly focused on the Global North. This study takes an entanglement approach to assess the potential of the informal sector in the Global South and the gaps in their networks that should be addressed for a just transition to a circular economy from a primarily linear and recycling economy.