An analysis of operational behavioural factors and circular economy practices in SMEs: An emerging economy perspective

Circular Economy (CE) principles are relatively unexplored, especially in emerging economies. None of the studies so far have also explored operational behavioural factors and CE practices in the context of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). To address this gap, the present study explores operational behavioural factors that contribute to the adoption of CE practices in SMEs of emerging economies for the sustainable development of their societies. The study was conducted in three different phases. This involved an extensive literature review, a brainstorming session with experts, an empirical investigation based on 162 responses from SMEs, the development of a factors structure model employing Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and building a Network Relationship Map (NRM). The study contributes to the theory of planned and operational behaviour by considering the influence of personal determinants in assessing the adoption of CE among SMEs to examine the behavioural factors that influence CE adoption in these organisations.