Analyzing territoriality and circularity in local systems: insights from the sheep supply chain

Local systems can be conceived as complex entities in which the features of a geographically bounded area, including its history, culture, and social and environmental structures, can shape the activities and, consequently, the prospects for their economic development. The role of such contexts in fostering economic development, particularly in certain countries, has been widely examined in the literature and, after a period of relative decline in interest, is once again gaining attention as they are increasingly viewed as privileged contexts for implementing Circular Economy tools and practices. This article aims to investigate the contribution of local systems to the transition toward the Circular Economy paradigm. The study presents the preliminary results of the research project named “MAX-SHEEP: Modelling and assessment of circular scenarios in local contexts. Applications in the sheep supply chain”, which focuses on the sheep supply chain, as a context of analysis, considering both the breeding phase and the subsequent processing of its main products: meat, milk, and wool.