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Title:
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FOSTERING SUSTAINABILITY: OPEN SOCIAL INNOVATION AS A CATALYST FOR CIRCULAR ECONOMY |
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Author(s):
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Melissa Vasi |
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ISBN:
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978-989-8704-73-3 |
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Editors:
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Adriana Backx Noronha Viana and Pedro Isaías |
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Year:
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2025 |
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Edition:
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Single |
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Keywords:
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Sustainability, Open Social Innovation, Circular Economy, Agri-Food SMEs |
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Type:
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Regular Paper |
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First Page:
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45 |
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Last Page:
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49 |
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Language:
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English |
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Cover:
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Full Contents:
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Paper Abstract:
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Circular Economy (CE) is increasingly recognized as a transformative paradigm for sustainability in the agri-food sector, yet its adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remains constrained by limited resources and systemic barriers. This paper investigates how Open Social Innovation (OSI) can support the design and implementation of CE practices within agri-food SMEs. Drawing on insights from mixed-methods research, this study demonstrates that OSI enhances the design of CE practices through knowledge co-creation, stakeholder engagement, and open data sharing, while the implementation of such practices is supported by collective experimentation, resource mobilization, trust-building and digital platforms. The analysis conceptualizes the role of OSI as a catalyst for CE and further discusses the practical implications for SMEs and policymakers, including strategies to embed OSI into CE initiatives and to strength systemic resilience in the agri-food sector. By outlining a practical framework that positions OSI as both a socio-organizational and institutional enabler of CE, this study contributes to the emerging discourse on sustainable transformations and offers actionable pathways for advancing resilience and sustainability in agri-food SMEs. |
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