Applying a Systems Thinking Approach to Circular Economy Transitions: Insights From the Use of a Sociotechnical Systems Approach Within the UK Hospitality Sector

ABSTRACT Despite more than 20 years of research into sustainable tourism, the environmental impact of the UK hospitality sector remains high. A growing body of research into the concept of a circular economy ( CE ) demonstrates that transitioning to this way of working has significant benefits both for the environment and business outcomes. However, understanding how a CE , or CE principles, are implemented remains unknown. In this paper, we adopt a sociotechnical systems thinking (STST) approach to propose and test a novel, practical framework for CE implementation, using the hospitality sector as a case study example. Data are gathered via a cross‐sectoral, multistakeholder engagement programme to develop evidence‐based, sectoral‐specific CE implementation plans. We find that the STST offers an effective tool in identifying challenges and barriers to CE transitions and in developing future solutions, providing a mechanism for the implementation of CE principles across a sector. However, we found that the approach lacked clarity and provision of actionable steps, requiring additional insights from road‐mapping literature. Theoretical and practical contributions are discussed.