Agents of the circular ecosystem engaged in Preparation for Reuse (PfR) activities: a set of best practices for circularity

Preparation for Reuse (PfR) encompasses activities such as reuse, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing, and repurposing, occupying a priority position within the waste management hierarchy by enabling the extension of the useful life of products and materials with lower additional consumption of resources and energy when compared to recycling and energy recovery. Despite its relevance, PfR remains underrepresented in public policies, monitoring instruments, and consolidated operational models, which limits its adoption on a broader scale. In this context, this article aimed to propose a set of best practices for the incorporation of PfR by organizations, thereby contributing to the transition toward a Circular Economy. To this end, this study adopts a qualitative multiple-case study research design and a systematic literature review, guided by an abductive analytical approach, systematic combining, which blends deductive and inductive elements across three interconnected phases. The results show that, although heterogeneous, these organizations share convergent patterns in operational, managerial, and institutional aspects. Based on these findings, the study systematizes best practices in a framework structured around five analytical dimensions – collection and logistics, operations and technical aspects, governance and management, financial sustainability, and social and educational practices – and in an operational flowchart that visualizes their application along the material trajectory. This framework supports the identification of bottlenecks, the prioritization of actions, and organizational self-diagnosis, helping organizations recognize which practices they already perform and which represent opportunities for development. Thus, the study contributes by providing applicable instruments that bring PfR closer to its concrete implementation as a Circular Economy strategy.