Human-in-the-circular-loop (HITCL): A human-centric approach in circular economy ecosystems research

This paper introduces the Human-in-the-circular-loop (HITCL) framework, which aims to systematise the role of humans within circular economy ecosystems. The framework integrates established theories from a range of disciplines, such as psychology and human resource management, to provide an understanding of the human factors influencing the adoption of circular practices. Acknowledging the important part that humans play as both consumers and employees in shifting to a Circular Economy, the HITCL framework provides the lens under which we can study how individuals embrace the circular economy concept and how this influences their behaviours and decision-making when it comes to circular practices.