1st Edition

Building a Circular Future in Australia Why, What and How?

By Usha Iyer-Raniga, Jacqueline Cramer Copyright 2026
248 Pages 8 Color & 15 B/W Illustrations
by CRC Press

248 Pages 8 Color & 15 B/W Illustrations
by CRC Press

This book explores the transition to the circular economy through a multi-dimensional lens, highlighting its necessity for a sustainable future. It analyses both public and network governance models essential for systemic transitions and contextualises these for Australia’s unique socio-political landscape. Through analyses in two key sectors—textiles and construction—the book identifies emerging... Read more

Preface

Acknowledgements

Introduction

 

WHY: CIRCULAR ECONOMY (CE) AND ITS IMPORTANCE

 

The Meaning of CE

Introduction

The Origins of CE

Definitions of CE

Relationship Between CE and Sustainable Development

Definition of CE Used in this Book

CE in Different Parts of the World

Conclusion

References

 

Governance of the CE

Introduction

The Origins and Meaning of Governance as a Steering Concept

Problems of Governability, Democratic Anchorage and Representation of Actors

Worldwide Application of the New Form of Governance

Country Specific Drivers in Governing a CE

Effectiveness of the Governance of CE

Ten Takeaways for Global Changemakers in CE

Conclusion

References

 

Transitioning from Linear to a CE

Introduction

Transition Management Research

Modelling the Implementation of Sustainability Transitions

Key Issues for Transition Management and Network Governance

Ten Guiding Principles for a CE

Conclusion

References

 

WHERE: THE AUSTRALIAN CONTEXT

 

Background

Introduction

Biophysical Context

People

Settlers from Europe

Economic Underpinnings

Transformation of the Australian Society

Emergence of CE Transitions

Conclusion

References

 

Governance in Australia

Introduction

CE Underpinnings at a National Level

State Government Approaches to CE

Local Government Approaches to CE

CE in Various Stages of Transition

Conclusion

References

 

The Emergence of CE

Introduction

Waste Management Policies

Other National Initiatives

State-Based Authorities: Environmental Protection Authority

Avenue for Developing CE in Australia

Conclusion

References

 

WHAT: CREATING THE SYSTEMIC CHANGE FOR CE IN AUSTRALIA

 

State of Play

Introduction

Research Method

Findings

The Political Environment in Australia

Learning from First Nations

Impact of Media, Including Social Media

Actions to Support CE Outcomes

Discussion

Conclusion

References

 

Circular Clothing and Textiles

Introduction

What is Circular Fashion?

Barriers to Transition to Circular Clothing

Case Study: The Development of Circular Textiles in Australia

Drivers to Implementing Slow Fashion Practices

Reflections on Promising Avenues to Move to a Circular Textiles Industry

Conclusion

References

 

Circular Buildings and Construction

Introduction

The Principles of Circular Buildings and Construction

Barriers and Drivers for Moving to a Circular Buildings and Construction Sector in Australia

Role of Government and Related Organisations Associated with Buildings and Construction in Australia

Emerging Views of Various Buildings and Construction Peak Organisations

First Large CE Pilots as Inspiring Examples

Drivers to Scaling up Circular Building Practices

Reflections on the Transition to a Circular Built Environment

Conclusion

References

 

HOW: TRANSITIONING TO THE CE IN AUSTRALIA

 

Ten Key Takeaways for Developing and Implementing the CE in Australia

Introduction

References

 

Index

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Biography

Dr. Usha Iyer-Raniga has always worked in sustainability in the built environment and is Co-lead of Circular Built Environment (CBE), GlobalABC/One Planet Network’s Materials Hub hosted by UNEP. The circularity research and engagement associated with CBE responds to Sustainable Development Goals 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15 and 17. As a practitioner-academic, Prof. Iyer-Raniga's teaching and research have been focused on accelerating the transition to sustainable and circular futures across the Global North and Global South.

Dr. Jacqueline Cramer has always combined her academic career with being a practitioner in sustainability working in both industry and government. As a university professor since 1990, she specialised in strategic environmental management, corporate social responsibility and transition management (particularly circular economy). Prof. Cramer has served on over 120 influential boards of government, industry, and non-profit organizations. From 2007–2010 she was Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment for the Netherlands.