The Role Of Indian Universities In Advancing The Circular Economy: Case Studies, Challenges, And Strategic Recommendations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69935/2aey7a71Keywords:
Circular economy, higher education, Indian universities, sustainability transition, institutional innovation, resource efficiencyAbstract
The increased pressure in the use of natural resources and the rising environmental issues have heightened the quest in finding a development model to support economic development and ecological consciousness. Circular economy is a new promising model that puts the focus on optimization of resources, reduction of waste, and regeneration of a system. Universities are in a strategic placement to facilitate this transition through influencing innovation, shaping knowledge systems and by directly interacting with the society. The education institutions of higher education in India are situated in an intricate system of sustainability characterized by fast growth of the economy and environmental insecurity. This paper is a critical analysis of how Indian universities can enhance the practices of the circular economy by means of education, research, and institutional processes and involvement of stakeholders. Based on the mixed-method approach that is provided by the institutional case studies, the paper reveals the current contributions, structural limitations, and emerging opportunities. On the basis of the results, one of the strategic frameworks is offered to reinforce the adoption of the principles of the circular economy into the context of Indian higher education to make universities the agents of sustainable change.
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