Barriers and driving forces in the transition to a circular economy: Developing countries and Türkiye

The transition to a circular economy (CE), whose primary goal is to ensure sustainable development, has become a major global agenda item, particularly in developed countries, due to the economic, social, and environmental benefits it will deliver. However, despite all these benefits, the desired progress in the transition to this new economic order has not yet been achieved. The barriers encountered during the transition process are cited as the primary reason for this situation. Therefore, identifying the barriers encountered during the transition to CE and the driving forces that motivate the process is crucial to the successful progress of the transition. Drawing on traditional literature, this research examines the barriers to the adoption of CE in developing countries, including Türkiye, and the driving forces that encourage the transition. By analysing detailed examples from various countries, this article aims to guide businesses, practitioners, and policymakers in developing countries, particularly Türkiye, facing similar barriers in implementing the system. In this way, the findings of a limited number of studies on Türkiye and other developing countries are presented and interpreted together, and the study aims to contribute to the field's gap regarding CE applications in developing countries. The research demonstrates that the success of the process depends solely on the participation, cooperation, and coordination of all stakeholders; therefore, the transition to CE requires a holistic perspective across all economic levels (micro, meso, and macro). The findings demonstrate that implementing the necessary policies, regulations, and practices for the transition to CE, providing financial support and incentives to businesses, adapting technological infrastructure to support CE, and conducting training and awareness-raising activities will significantly impact the success of the process.