Opportunities for Indigenous-Led Industrial Development Through Circular Economy and Its Financing
摘要
Background: Industrialization, with conventional linear production systems, has exerted considerable pressure on natural resources. It is significantly contributing to climate change and ecological degradation. The excessive and inefficient consumption of natural resources has created a threat on sustainability. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) given by United Nations emphasize industrial transition from linear to circular economy to recuperate the ecosystem. Large-scale adoption of a circular economy can significantly contribute to green growth. Purpose: This chapter comprehensively explains the circular economy in the context of the Indian Indigenous industry of Jute. This case study investigates how traditional resource-dependent industries can be transformed into circular and environmentally resilient systems to achieve sustainable development goals. Methods: The ‘Jute Belt Revolution’ of the Indian agriculture industry is studied for circular economy applications. A qualitative, case-based methodology is deployed to examine techno-innovative interventions for recycling and reusing jute waste. The primary data is collected from Jute farmers, jute mills, jute recyclers, and automobile and financial services experts. Findings/Implications: The study presents a replicable model of circular transformation for indigenous industries, showcasing how Jute can serve as a sustainable input across multiple sectors. The chapter also reveals the financial requirements and viable funding avenues for facilitating this transition, including the emerging role of circular finance. Additionally, the chapter provides the application of blockchain technology in optimizing circular supply chains through smart contracts, cost efficiency, and automated financing. These insights offer valuable inputs for extending circular economy applications to other traditional industries, such as ceramics and handicrafts, thereby contributing to India’s broader sustainable development agenda.