Call for Chapters: Value Creation and Circular Business Models for Resource Scarcity

Editors

Muhammad Suhrab, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China
Syed Sherazi, University of Kotli Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan

Call for Chapters

Proposals Submission Deadline: March 31, 2025
Full Chapters Due: April 16, 2025
Submission Date: April 16, 2025

Introduction

In a world marked by increasing resource scarcity, environmental degradation, and shifting consumer expectations, businesses face unprecedented pressure to evolve. Traditional linear business models—built on a “take, make, dispose” approach—are no longer sustainable. As the global economy grapples with the consequences of overconsumption, waste, and resource depletion, a fundamental shift toward more sustainable, circular business models has become imperative. This shift is not just about reducing waste; it is about redefining value creation itself.

At the heart of this transformation lies the circular economy—a regenerative system in which product life cycles are extended, materials are continually reused, and waste is minimized. Circularity challenges the conventional mindset of “growth at all costs” and instead embraces a vision where economic prosperity and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. But how can businesses make this transition? The answer lies in innovation, particularly through emerging technologies.

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, automation, and advanced manufacturing are not only facilitating this transition but also driving the next wave of circular business models. These technologies enable businesses to optimize resource use, extend product lifecycles, and create inherently more sustainable business models. From smart supply chains to digital product passports, from AI-driven predictive maintenance to blockchain-powered circular marketplaces, technology is unlocking opportunities for businesses to adopt circular practices at scale.

Value Creation and Circular Business Models for Resource Scarcity explores the intersection of circular economy principles and cutting-edge technological advancements, focusing on how businesses can harness these innovations to build sustainable, profitable, and resilient enterprises. It delves into the transformation businesses must undergo to thrive in a world where traditional linear models are no longer viable. Through real-world case studies, technological insights, and practical guidance, this book provides a roadmap for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators looking to embrace the circular economy and lead the way to a more sustainable future.

By understanding the symbiotic relationship between circular economy principles and emerging technologies, readers will gain insights into navigating the complexities of the modern business landscape. This book offers not just theoretical knowledge but actionable strategies, helping businesses redefine their practices, streamline operations, and innovate in ways that are both environmentally and economically advantageous. The circular shift is no longer an abstract ideal; it is a practical, actionable strategy for businesses seeking long-term success in a rapidly changing world.

In the chapters ahead, we explore the transformative power of these technologies, examine the role of circular business models in driving sustainability, and identify the opportunities and challenges businesses face as they embark on this journey. This book is a call to action for those ready to lead the charge toward a future where circularity is not just a buzzword but the foundation of a new economic paradigm.



Objective

Book Objectives

The primary objective of this book is to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the intersection of circular economy principles and emerging technologies, illustrating how businesses can leverage these innovations to transition from traditional, linear models to circular, sustainable ones. It bridges the gap between conceptual and practical aspects of circularity, offering actionable insights for business leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and scholars.

This Book Will Accomplish the Following:

Educate and Inform

This book will provide an in-depth exploration of the core principles of the circular economy, emphasizing why businesses must adopt circular models. By examining emerging technologies—such as AI, IoT, blockchain, automation, and 3D printing—it will demonstrate how these tools enhance efficiency, optimize resource use, and drive sustainability in business operations. Through accessible language and clear examples, readers will gain a thorough understanding of complex concepts and their real-world applications.

Showcase Business Applications and Innovations

Featuring real-world case studies, this book will highlight companies successfully integrating circular economy practices with the latest technologies. These case studies will not only illustrate how businesses are achieving sustainability goals but also serve as inspiration for organizations looking to implement similar changes. By covering diverse industries—from manufacturing to services to retail—the book will demonstrate the feasibility of circular transformation across various sectors and scales.

Provide Practical Strategies for Transitioning to Circularity

Many businesses recognize the need for sustainability but struggle with implementation. This book will serve as a practical guide for organizations at different stages of their circular journey, offering strategic insights into designing circular products, optimizing supply chains, and leveraging technology to close material loops. It will also address common challenges and provide solutions for overcoming obstacles and scaling circular practices effectively.

Contribute to Research on Circular Economy and Emerging Technologies

By synthesizing the latest developments in circular economy models and emerging technologies, this book will expand the existing body of research. While circular economy research has grown over the past few decades, the integration of technological innovations into circular business strategies remains an evolving field. By focusing on the technological enablers of circularity, this book will contribute new perspectives to academic discussions in sustainability, innovation management, and business strategy. It will also identify research gaps and suggest new directions for further study, particularly in digital technology’s role in accelerating circular business adoption.

Promote a Global Perspective on Circular Business Models

As the circular economy becomes a global movement, businesses must consider both local and international factors influencing circularity. This book will explore global trends, policies, and regulations impacting circular businesses, providing a broader context for organizations seeking to scale their circular initiatives across borders. Additionally, it will discuss how emerging technologies can help businesses navigate challenges such as supply chain complexities, regulatory compliance, and international market expansion.

Inspire Future Innovations and Policy Development

The book aims to inspire innovation by demonstrating how businesses can lead systemic change toward a more sustainable future. It will highlight the potential of circular business models to create new revenue streams, promote eco-friendly technologies, and foster a culture of sustainable innovation. Additionally, the book will engage policymakers and stakeholders, offering insights into how policies and regulations can support and accelerate the adoption of circular practices on a larger scale.

By providing both theoretical foundations and practical insights, The Circular Shift will serve as an essential resource for those involved in the transition to sustainable and circular business practices. Through its combination of cutting-edge research, real-world applications, and forward-looking strategies, this book will contribute significantly to both academic literature and the business community, advancing the conversation on sustainability, technology, and innovation.



Target Audience

Target Audience

This book is designed for a diverse audience spanning academia, industry, government, and civil society. Its insights, case studies, and frameworks provide practical guidance and thought leadership for individuals and organizations committed to driving sustainable economic practices.

Key Audiences:

  • Academics and Researchers: Scholars and students in economics, business, environmental studies, and sustainability will benefit from the book’s theoretical foundations, innovative frameworks, and exploration of emerging research gaps. It serves as both a foundational text and a resource for advancing academic discourse on circular business models and their economic implications.
  • Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs: Corporate executives, business strategists, and entrepreneurs seeking to innovate and gain competitive advantages through sustainability will find valuable insights on how circular models can enhance profitability, efficiency, and brand value. The book’s case studies and implementation strategies offer actionable guidance for organizations at any stage of their circular journey.
  • Policymakers and Regulators: Government officials, policymakers, and regulatory bodies aiming to develop or refine policies that support the circular economy will benefit from the book’s exploration of policy frameworks, institutional roles, and public-private partnerships. It provides evidence-based recommendations for fostering an enabling environment for circular business practices.
  • Sustainability Practitioners and Environmental Advocates: Professionals in sustainability roles and environmental organizations will gain a deeper understanding of how economic principles can drive environmental solutions. The book bridges the gap between sustainability goals and economic viability, equipping practitioners with tools to advocate for circular economy initiatives.
  • Investors and Financial Institutions: Investors, venture capitalists, and financial institutions interested in impact investing or funding sustainable business ventures will find the book’s analysis of circular business models invaluable for identifying opportunities and assessing risks associated with the transition to a circular economy.
  • Educators and Trainers: Teachers, trainers, and workshop facilitators in sustainability and economics can use this book as an educational resource to inspire and empower the next generation of professionals and leaders committed to sustainable development.
  • General Readers with an Interest in Sustainability: Individuals with a personal or professional interest in sustainability, climate change, and innovative business practices will find the book an engaging and accessible introduction to the principles and applications of circular business models.

Benefits to the Audience:

The book offers a unique blend of theory, practice, and forward-looking insights, enabling readers to:

  • Understand the economic rationale behind circular business models.
  • Identify strategies for transitioning to sustainable practices in their own organizations.
  • Advocate for or implement policies that promote circularity.
  • Stay informed about global trends and best practices in the circular economy.

By addressing the needs of this diverse audience, the book aims to catalyze a collective shift toward sustainable value creation, empowering readers to become change agents in their respective fields.



Recommended Topics

  • Emerging Technologies in Sustainable Business
  • Digital Transformation for Sustainability
  • Circular Economy Strategies
  • Resource Efficiency and Waste Reduction
  • Green Investment and Sustainable Finance
  • ESG Criteria and Corporate Sustainability
  • Policy Innovation for Sustainable Development
  • Regulatory Frameworks for Sustainability
  • Leadership and Organizational Resilience
  • AI and Automation in Sustainable Business
  • Blockchain and IoT for Circular Economies
  • Sustainable Supply Chain Management
  • Digital Marketing for Sustainable Consumer Engagement
  • Impact Investing and Green Bonds
  • Future Trends in Sustainable Business Models


Submission Procedure

Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit on or before December 15, 2024, a chapter proposal of 1,000 to 2,000 words clearly explaining the mission and concerns of his or her proposed chapter. Authors will be notified by December 29, 2024 about the status of their proposals and sent chapter guidelines.Full chapters of a minimum of 10,000 words (word count includes references and related readings) are expected to be submitted by February 16, 2025, and all interested authors must consult the guidelines for manuscript submissions at https://www.igi-global.com/publish/contributor-resources/before-you-write/ prior to submission. All submitted chapters will be reviewed on a double-anonymized review basis. Contributors may also be requested to serve as reviewers for this project.

Note: There are no submission or acceptance fees for manuscripts submitted to this book publication, Value Creation and Circular Business Models for Resource Scarcity. All manuscripts are accepted based on a double-anonymized peer review editorial process.

All proposals should be submitted through the eEditorial Discovery® online submission manager.



Publisher

This book is scheduled to be published by IGI Global Scientific Publishing (formerly Idea Group Inc.), an international academic publisher of the "Information Science Reference" (formerly Idea Group Reference), "Medical Information Science Reference," "Business Science Reference," and "Engineering Science Reference" imprints. IGI Global Scientific Publishing specializes in publishing reference books, scholarly journals, and electronic databases featuring academic research on a variety of innovative topic areas including, but not limited to, education, social science, medicine and healthcare, business and management, information science and technology, engineering, public administration, library and information science, media and communication studies, and environmental science. For additional information regarding the publisher, please visit https://www.igi-global.com. This publication is anticipated to be released in 2025.



Important Dates

December 15, 2024: Proposal Submission Deadline
December 29, 2024: Notification of Acceptance
February 16, 2025: Full Chapter Submission
March 23, 2025: Review Results Returned
April 20, 2025: Final Acceptance Notification
April 27, 2025: Final Chapter Submission



Inquiries

Prof. Chen Pinglu
School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, China. Email: chenpinglu@hust.edu.cn
Muhammad Suhrab
School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, China. E-mail: writetosohrab@gmail.com
Waseem Irshad
School of Management, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, China. E-mail: waseemirshad@outlook.com.
Dr. Syed sherazi
University of Kotli Azad Jammu & Kashmir. E-mail: Kamransherazi@gmail.com
Prof. Radulescu Magdalena
University of Pitesti, Romania. E-mail: magdalena.radulescu@upit.ro



Classifications


Business and Management; Social Sciences and Humanities
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