Introduction
The circular economy, driven by global necessities, has emerged as a new paradigm in economics, business, and supply chain management. Consequently, the future of economics and business must inevitably transition toward a circular economy. Accordingly, product design practices are also evolving to align with circular economy principles. The primary objective of this research is to develop and propose a product design model tailored to circular economy requirements. Although the circular economy is still in its early stages of implementation in manufacturing industries, the home appliance sector presents significant potential for its adoption. This industry is characterized by a wide range of products, frequent product returns from customers for various reasons, and a defined product life cycle. Notably, home appliances have a predetermined lifespan, after which they can either re-enter the production cycle as raw materials or be repurposed as second-hand goods. Therefore, product design in this industry can be strategically aligned with circular economy principles, necessitating a comprehensive model applicable at least at the national level.
Methodology
This study is applied and employs a descriptive-analytical approach for data collection. A sequential mixed-method approach was utilized, involving 15 executive and academic experts as the research sample. Using a qualitative-quantitative approach, the model was developed in three stages: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Subsequently, the relationships between factors were analyzed using the cognitive mapping approach.
Results and Discussion
This study explores the implementation of a circular economy product design model using a hybrid approach. Initially, based on grounded theory, a model comprising 24 components was identified across three stages, classifying causal, contextual, and intervening factors, as well as strategies and consequences. Then, using the cognitive mapping approach, 21 extracted factors were structured into a network. The results were analyzed using UCINET software, leading to the identification of key network metrics such as centrality, betweenness, and closeness. These metrics helped determine which factors had the strongest connections, which played intermediary roles, and which were central to the model. According to the findings, optimal resource utilization, macro-level pressures, a well-established consumption culture, challenges in raw material supply, environmental protection, and ecological risks were identified as causal conditions. Furthermore, the model's strategic components include enhancing the product design value chain, developing durable products, designing recyclable products, integrating Industry 4.0 technologies, and leveraging advanced technological solutions. The outcomes of these strategies include positive environmental impacts, competitive advantages for companies, and improved performance indicators. Another research avenue involves identifying the transition phases from a linear to a circular economy, particularly the innovation stages in circular product design models and the key determining factors in each stage. Additionally, recognizing the requirements, barriers, and enablers of circular business model implementation can facilitate business model innovation in this domain, thereby reducing transition risks and costs. Future research can focus on identifying these barriers and enablers across all circular product design models or within specific industries.
Conclusion
By presenting a structured framework for classifying circular business strategies and models, this research demonstrates how product design strategies can be aligned with circular economy principles. This study explores how a circular economy—essentially a zero-waste system—shapes product design approaches. The circular economy is a key driver for ensuring sustainable production and consumption patterns. The findings can assist companies aiming to implement circular economy-oriented product design by providing insights into appropriate models and strategic frameworks.