The spillover effects of commodity market dynamics on producing companies’ transition to a circular economy: Evidence from the agricultural sector

Details

Supervisors

Vandenberghe, Vincent ; Vandone, Daniela ; Bellardini, Luca

Faculty

Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences économiques, orientation générale, à finalité approfondie

Abstract

The Circular Economy (CE) paradigm has emerged as a novel approach aimed at advancing sustainable development by concurrently enhancing economic, environmental, and social objectives. However, despite the growing interest therein, many areas remain underexplored, particularly regarding the relationship between the dynamics of agricultural commodity markets and the circular transition. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the influence of commodity market dynamics on the circular transition of publicly-listed commodity-producing companies. A panel data of the 60 largest listed companies in the agricultural sector worldwide, with yearly observations over a 2018-22 timespan, was selected to compute a Circular Performance Corporate-level Indicator (CPCI); then, both corporate and market variables were employed to explain the latter’s level. Results provide insights into the interplay between agricultural commodity markets and corporate circular practices, shedding light on the role of commodity markets in influencing circularity. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the driving forces behind the adoption of more circular practices, thereby offering invaluable insights for policymakers and businesses striving to navigate towards a circular future and fostering a sustainable global economy.