Circular Platforms
Findings from a Global Survey

A Deep Dive into the Global Impact of Circular Platforms

Digital platforms have become pivotal commerce channels, driving trillions of dollars in global transactions. However, most of these platforms still operate within a linear economy framework, focusing on new product sales with little regard for end-of-life cycles. This report by Peter C. Evans fills a critical knowledge gap by offering an in-depth analysis of circular platforms—digital marketplaces designed to extend product lifecycles, maximize resource utilization, and reduce waste.

Through the analysis of 246 circular platforms worldwide, this report uncovers the evolution of circular platform models, their growth across various sectors, and their geographic distribution. It provides valuable insights into how these platforms are not just facilitating sustainable practices but also creating new opportunities for businesses to thrive in a circular economy. Whether you're a business leader, policymaker, or sustainability advocate, this report offers a fresh perspective on the future of commerce.

The Evolution of Circular Platforms

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Evolution: Learn about the three waves of circular platform evolution and how they have shaped today's digital marketplace landscape.
• Sector Insights: Gain insights into the 14 sectors most impacted by circular platforms, with a special focus on electronics, apparel, and industrial materials.
• Global Trends: Discover the geographic distribution of circular platforms and how different regions are adopting circular economy principles.
• Business Benefits: Explore how circular platforms can create competitive advantages through resource efficiency, waste reduction, and new revenue streams.
• Regulatory Impact: Understand the role of global regulations in accelerating the adoption of circular platforms and how businesses can stay ahead of these changes.
• Future Outlook: Get a glimpse into the future of circular platforms and the critical actions needed to fully leverage their potential in closing the global circularity gap.

About the Author

Peter C. Evans is Chief Strategy Officer at McFadyen Digital. He has over 25 years of experience leading teams in identifying, framing, assessing, and communicating high-priority marketplace trends and disruptions that support business planning and investment prioritization. He has held senior strategy at large global enterprises (former partner at KPMG, senior director, strategy and analytics at GE). He is the co-chair of the MIT Platform Strategy Summit and the NTWRK Summit in Barcelona, Spain and serves as an Advisory Board member to Marketplace Risk. He is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations and served on the board of the National Association for Business Economics. He was visiting instructor teaching platform strategy for three years at Dartmouth College and currently co-teaches a Masterclass on Circular Logistics and Platform Strategy. Peter received his BA from Hampshire College and his master's degree and PhD degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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