Systematical development of circular economy business ecosystems
Thesis event information
Date and time of the thesis defence
Place of the thesis defence
L2, Linnanmaa campus
Topic of the dissertation
Systematical development of circular economy business ecosystems
Doctoral candidate
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and Management Juuso Kivijakola
Faculty and unit
University of Oulu Graduate School, Faculty of Technology, Industrial Engineering and Management
Subject of study
Industrial Engineering and Management
Opponent
Professor Jussi Kantola, University of Turku
Custos
Docent Pekka Tervonen, University of Oulu
Development of circular economy business'
This doctoral dissertation examined the systematic development of circular economy business models across multiple industries, with a particular focus on the utilization of waste heat from data centers and biochar. The topics were analyzed from several perspectives, including ecosystem theories, stakeholder management, and production value chains.
The research methods employed included interviews with companies and other relevant actors, literature reviews, surveys, and workshops organized for stakeholders within the studied fields. The dissertation is based on four published peer-reviewed research articles.
The results produced a range of process frameworks and conceptual models, as well as generalized insights into the challenges, opportunities, and bottlenecks associated with scaling up emerging business opportunities. These findings provide a roadmap for decision-makers and researchers to help manage and develop large, complex, and still-evolving systems characterized by significant uncertainty. A central element of the process is the definition of target states, alongside the alignment of the maturity levels, incentives, capabilities, and interests of different stakeholders and ecosystems.
The research methods employed included interviews with companies and other relevant actors, literature reviews, surveys, and workshops organized for stakeholders within the studied fields. The dissertation is based on four published peer-reviewed research articles.
The results produced a range of process frameworks and conceptual models, as well as generalized insights into the challenges, opportunities, and bottlenecks associated with scaling up emerging business opportunities. These findings provide a roadmap for decision-makers and researchers to help manage and develop large, complex, and still-evolving systems characterized by significant uncertainty. A central element of the process is the definition of target states, alongside the alignment of the maturity levels, incentives, capabilities, and interests of different stakeholders and ecosystems.
Created 16.6.2026 | Updated 16.6.2026