Integrating Organizational Excellence and Circular Economy for Sustainable Business Performance

Abstract

This PhD thesis explores the integration of Organizational Excellence and Circular Economy principles as a pathway to enhance sustainability in organizations. Using a quantitative approach, the research investigates 449 private sector organizations in Jordan to understand how the alignment of Circular Economy practices with organizational strategies can drive sustainability. The study employs surveys and statistical analyses, including Cronbach's alpha and regression models, to assess the relationships between Circular Economy implementation and various organizational outcomes, such as innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Key findings indicate that top management support and well-aligned operations are crucial enablers for successful Circular Economy integration, significantly influencing environmental sustainability and overall organizational performance. The research contributes both theoretically and practically by providing a framework for integrating sustainability into business excellence models like the EFQM, highlighting the importance of Circular Economy in meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 on sustainable consumption and production patterns. The study offers actionable recommendations for policymakers and organizational leaders, emphasizing the need for a systemic approach to embedding Circular Economy principles within operational and strategic processes to achieve long-term sustainability and competitive advantage.