Assessing circularity in organisations. Measurement, monitoring and communication in the university context.

Abstract

The transition to a circular economy represents one of the most significant challenges for society. Educational institutions, as organisations dedicated to education, research and community services, play a key role in promoting and adopting circular economy models. Therefore, they require methods to quantify and monitor their level of circularity. In recent years, various methods to assess circularity in organisations have been developed. However, these generic methods do not consider the specific characteristics of universities. In this context, the aim of this thesis is to develop a useful method to measure the level of circularity, evaluate its progress, identify improvement potentials and propose circularity strategies. The proposal is based on a set of 82 indicators, with their corresponding metrics, designed considering the particularities of universities. In addition, these indicators are modelled in an assessment tool called CExUNV which assists in decision-making and generates a concise and complete report of results.