Bringing the local back in. The role of territories in the “biological” transition process toward circular economy: A perspective of analysis

As widely evidenced in the past decades, level of “humanity's metabolism” is unsustainable and must be reduced. It especially related to issues, such as availability resources, impacts transportation, waste management, external costs that could adversely affect economic environmental scenario at a global level. In transition circular economy (CE), moving from insights industrial ecology (IE) “biological paradigm”, it has been suggested meso scale one which great efficiencies can achieved; focus on territories networks actors' express significant potential terms synergistic efficient use resources wastes. This perspective article aims propose detailed methodological viewpoint this issue, scientific empirical experience gained long-term research project conducted by author themes IE, CE, their development local contexts. The first phase was characterized theoretical-methodological in-depth analysis, case studies, pilot tests, including different operating contexts evaluate for IE-based approaches. results obtained experiences have used develop an interpretative framework assessing role factors influencing process development. Currently, aimed developing analytical model capable representing both structural operational characteristics relative influence view adoption strategies territory they are located.