Gendered Approaches to Circular Economy Finance: Women-Led Startups and Sustainable Resource Efficiency

One of the most important routes to attaining environmental sustainability and effective resource use is the shift from a linear to a circular economy. Finance for the circular economy is essential to company models that prioritize waste reduction, recycling, and reuse. In this regard, the role that women-led companies play in promoting socially conscious and sustainable entrepreneurship has drawn more attention. By analysing how women-led companies implement sustainable financial practices to support resource efficiency and circular company operations, this study investigates gendered approaches to financing the circular economy. The study intends to investigate the financial strategies used by female entrepreneurs in green companies and evaluate how they contribute to the advancement of circular economy ideas. The study employs a mixed-method research methodology, including secondary data from reports, scholarly literature, and sustainability disclosures in addition to primary data gathered from structured questionnaires and interviews with female founders. Financial practices such ethical funding models, cost-effective resource management, reinvestment methods, and access to green finance are the main focus of the analysis. It is anticipated that the results will show how women-led companies exhibit a good connection between the goals of the circular economy and sustainable financial decision-making, which helps to improve resource efficiency, recycle more, and generate less trash. The study also highlights the main institutional and financial obstacles that female entrepreneurs must overcome, such as their restricted access to impact investment and funding. This study adds to the body of knowledge on sustainable finance and entrepreneurship by using a gender-responsive approach. It also provides useful information for investors, legislators, 416 and support organizations looking to increase financing for women-led green companies through the circular economy.