From Linear to Circular: A Comprehensive SWOT Analysis of India’s Circular Economy Potential

The conventional linear "take-make-dispose" approach has exacerbated the problems of environmental degradation and climate change by accelerating resource depletion, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, and producing a large amount of solid waste (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2013). An efficient substitute for the linear economy paradigm is the circular economy model. It fosters sustainable economic growth through effective resource-saving techniques like recycling, remanufacturing, industrial symbiosis etc. This SWOT analysis focuses on a comprehensive study of the Circular Economy in India and aims to provide policy recommendations for improving Circular Economy practices in India. It is backed by a systematic study of policy documents, data analysis, and literature as well as comparative assessments employing case studies from around the globe, based on information obtained from authentic sources. The findings of this research work suggest that while the circular economy paradigm has enormous potential to transform India due to technical improvements, foreign investments, and other factors, it is also threatened by various obstacles such as cultural barriers and market instabilities. However, focused efforts and targeted interventions would be needed to overcome these barriers.