Is Green Chemistry a feasible tool for the implementation of a circular economy?

摘要

The main goal of this research is to evaluate the contributions of Green Chemistry as a potential tool to drive the transition to circularity. For this, we have carried out a bibliographic study, analyzing those documents, process, or experiences that dealt jointly with the Green Chemistry aspects related to circularity such circular economy, industrial ecology, and closed loop. Findings show that few authors have treated that disciplines together in the last 10 years. Based on an analysis of academic literature, common strategies (design, raw materials, life cycle assessment, processes, normative, new business, and collaboration), specific experiences (catalyst, biobased products ormethods, recycling, and reusing), and difficulties to overcome (metrics, transdisciplinary research, unawareness, and competitiveness) have been identified. Finally, different kind ofmeasures, as behind such joint metrics, informal open spaces, closer the industry, education, standards and label are proposed to facilitate the development of Green Chemistry, circular economy, industrial ecology, and closed loop with the ultimate goal of improving sustainable development.