Exploring circular economy transition pathways: a roadmap analysis of 15 Canadian local governments

Abstract

This paper explores how 15 Canadian local governments of various sizes and contexts are transitioning to a circular economy by analysing their roadmap currently in development. It provides qualitative insights into how physical, socioeconomic and institutional factors are influencing the content of roadmaps, along with their similarities and differences. Drawing from the literature on the geography of transitions, we show that while local physical and socioeconomic attributes typically shape the roadmaps by determining likely activities, their actual trajectory varies based on the roadmap instigators and the broader institutional contexts in which they operate. The findings suggest the importance of local governments supporting the roadmap instigators while also recognising that circular economy transition pathways can capitalise on policies and programs not only locally but beyond local boundaries.