METHODICAL PECULIARITIES OF ASSESSING THE LEVEL OF ENTERPRISE CIRCULARITY

Abstract

It is substantiated that an important role in the process of the country’s transition to a circular model of economy is played by the primary links of the economic system – enterprises. Implementation of the circular economy principles can transform various aspects of businesses, including the organisation of business processes, interaction with suppliers, selection of raw materials, transport and distribution networks, customer relations and the end of the product life cycle. It is established that the lack of reliable data of the circular economy principles at the micro level leads to managerial problems, which impedes the formation of an effective strategy for sustainable enterprise development. It is noted that indicators of the closed-loop economy are necessary to monitor the progress in order to generate managerial influences to activate the cumulative effects of the circular economy model. It is envisaged that circular economy indicators can be used as key performance indicators for benchmarking enterprises by various stakeholders (partners, investors, government agencies), for informing consumers, and as a basis for regulatory changes, etc. The article substantiates the theoretical aspects of the circular economy at the current stage and outlines the predicted effects of its implementation at the micro level. The results of the analytical review and comparison of the most common in scientific research methodological approaches to the evaluation of the closed-loop economy at the local level are analyzed. It is determined that the formation of a relevant system of indicators of enterprise circularity requires complex changes in the traditional social, economic and environmental mechanisms of functioning. It is established that the indicators of the circular economy at the micro level usually cover the 3R imperatives. At the same time, they do not reflect the multi-vector nature of the closed cycle, and insufficiently analyse the environmental friendliness and zero-waste nature of production and consumption. A comprehensive methodological tool for assessing the circular development of an enterprise is developed. It will enable to ensure economic, environmental and social balance on the basis of circularity.