TRANSITION TOWARDS A CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN SMALL AND MEDIUM - SIZED ENTERPRISES: METHODOLOGICAL APPROACH

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in Europe's transition to sustainability, accounting for more than 50% of EU GDP and more than 63% of business are responsible for CO² and broader GHG emissions (European Commission, 2025).This study focuses on a synthesis of existing methodological approaches used to study the transition to a circular economy in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The aim is to analyze and summarize different research strategies, highlighting the most effective methods for the transition to a circular economy in these enterprises. The study uses a meta-analytic approach, reviewing qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research designs used to investigate best practices. The main methodological frameworks include case studies, surveys, life cycle assessments and comparative analysis of regulatory compliance. By examining these approaches, the study identifies their strengths, limitations and applicability in assessing the circular economy performance of SMEs. A key aspect of this methodological synthesis involves the categorization of research approaches, such as resource efficiency, waste management, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. It allows identifying best practices and gaps in current methodologies, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of how SMEs can effectively implement the transition to a circular economy.