White Paper: Circular Transformation of Industries – Unlocking Economic Value

The new white paper “Circular Transformation of Industries: Unlocking Economic Value” by the World Economic Forum demonstrates that circular economy strategies offer not only ecological but also clear economic advantages. Based on a global survey of 420 senior executives from ten industrial sectors, the analysis shows that companies with holistic circular economy strategies benefit from greater resilience, cost savings and new revenue potential.

The paper focuses on three key strategic approaches to circular transformation: the substitution of primary raw materials with secondary ones (circular feedstock), the targeted extension of product lifespans through repair, refurbishment and circular design (lifespan extension), and the implementation of business models based on shared use, such as “product-as-a-service” (capacity sharing).

 The findings make clear that successful transformation requires targeted investments, a shift in mindset, and strong partnerships along the entire value chain. Companies that combine strategies across the three archetypes are particularly successful in unlocking higher economic value.

Available online at: https://www.weforum.org/publications/circular-transformation-of-industries-unlocking-economic-value/

^{Source: World Economic Forum, Bain & Company & University of Cambridge (2025). Circular Transformation of Industries: Unlocking Economic Value.}