OUR chapter in a new reference book on circular economy
On 15 January, a major new reference work on circular economy will be released. Handbuch Kreislaufwirtschaft brings together an extensive body of knowledge, practice and policy perspectives, positioning itself as one of the most comprehensive and up-to-date handbooks on circular economy in the German-speaking region.
With more than 700 pages, the book offers a structured, interdisciplinary overview of circular economy principles, strategies and implementation pathways. It is designed as a working reference for decision-makers, practitioners, policymakers, researchers and all those engaged in shaping circular transitions in complex economic and societal systems.
A joint contribution from Circular Change
The handbook features joint chapter authored by members of the Circular Change team , Ladeja Godina Košir and Mina Mansoor Rankel , titled Systemischer Wandel braucht Profis: Die Rolle der Transition Brokers.
In their chapter, the authors explore systemic change as a professional and structured practice, arguing that complex circular transitions require dedicated roles capable of bridging sectors, institutions and interests. Drawing on extensive experience from European and international contexts, the chapter introduces Transition Brokers as neutral, trusted intermediaries who enable collaboration, translate complexity into action and support long-term transformation processes.
The contribution situates Transition Brokers at the intersection of policy, business and society, highlighting their relevance for regions, value chains and ecosystems navigating circular transitions under conditions of uncertainty, political sensitivity and institutional fragmentation.
An interdisciplinary reference for action
One of the key strengths of Handbuch Kreislaufwirtschaft lies in the diversity of expertise it brings together. The contributors come from academia, industry, consulting, legal and policy backgrounds, offering multiple perspectives on how circular economy principles can be applied across value chains, sectors and governance levels.
The editorial team is led by Karin Huber-Heim, a member of Circular Change’s Honorary Board. Her role as lead editor further underlines the strong connection between the handbook and our mission to bridge knowledge and action, and to support deep, systemic transformation rather than incremental change.
From knowledge to systemic impact
Handbuch Kreislaufwirtschaft is not only a collection of expert insights, but a practical reference for those who understand circular economy as a strategic lever for resilience, competitiveness and societal wellbeing. It offers structured, evidence-based pathways for moving from ambition to implementation in complex real-world contexts.
Published by Linde Verlag
