Reassessment of the Norwegian wool value chain using circular economic principles
Master thesis
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https://hdl.handle.net/11250/3019834Utgivelsesdato
2022Metadata
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Sammendrag
In this thesis we have followed Norwegian wool from extraction and throughout the currentvalue chain. This includes a farmer, wool stations, and wool refineries. In addition, we havesourced empirical data from key stakeholders. This consists of a representative from Noriliaand a researcher that has contributed greatly to the theme of Norwegian wool. Through anexploratory research design, we have been able to enter a field of study without priorknowledge. This has also allowed for incremental implementation of knowledge towards laterempirical sourcing.The theory in the thesis concerns wool as a material, focusing mainly on Norwegianlow-category wool, but also includes global perspectives. It also provides theory on circulareconomy concerning definitions, circular economy perspectives in value chains and theapplicability of circular economy.We have applied the 4Rs of circular economy to reassess the value chain, as a means touncover potential alternatives to the current system. We believe that circular economyprinciples can contribute to increased value creation for low-category wool. This entailsinnovative measures that prevent waste, secure valuable resources inherent in the wool andplan for future use.The thesis contains examples on alternative uses and processing techniques. These examplesexplain how conventional methods can be challenged in new ways with improved results.Rather than an addition to the theory of circular economy, this is an attempt to use aspects ofcircular economy to add to the field that concerns Norwegian low-category wool. The thesisattempts to shine a new light on an established system and challenge its ways. The degree oftransferability to other fields is therefore present. We have built upon the work, but notlimited to, by Kirchherr on the circular economy, and the work that has been conducted inKRUS and VerdifULL. The process has been an eye opener for us as wool has such a broadrange of applicabilities. The same can be said for the circular economy principles.We hope that this thesis is of interest and gives you, the reader, fruitful takeaways.