The infinite framework: Enhancing sustainable development and circularity in value chains

Abstract The manufacturing sector is a major contributor to material consumption, pollution, and waste generation. Despite global actions and policies promoting sustainable development and circularity, the global economy has yet to show significant signs of change. This article introduces a framework designed to transform current value chains into collaborative networks, involving a wide range of stakeholders who take responsibility for the process. The study identifies key shortcomings of current systems‐thinking approaches, which often fail to effectively prioritise hotspots along the value chain and assess them from environmental, social, economic, and governance perspectives. The proposed framework addresses these gaps, contributing to a necessary paradigm shift towards sustainable production. The article utilises case examples from the photovoltaic and textile sectors to illustrate implementation. By creating an inclusive and enabling ecosystem, this framework empowers decision‐makers and stakeholders to develop resilient pathways through the co‐creation of initiatives and policies, aligning attitudes with sustainable production practices.