Digital Equity as a Catalyst for Circular Economy Transitions

In an era in which sustainable development requires both technological advancements and social presence, this study examined the crucial role of digital equity in facilitating the adoption of circular economy (CE) practices and principles, grounded in the fundamental human right to live with dignity and opportunity. Although digital equity and sustainability receive support, the collaboration, particularly from the perspective of constitutional rights as a key link, remains inadequately addressed. This research study proposes and tests a structural equation model (SEM) examining the relationships between Digital Equity (DE), the Right to Live (RL), and the adoption of a circular economy (CE). Using validated constructs aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the model assesses the causal relationships across three scopes: digital equity, the right to live, and the adoption of a circular economy. By outlining digital equity as a driver of social human rights to live, which in turn supports circular and sustainable practices, this study identifies key research gaps in sustainability analysis. The model proposes that advancing towards a circular economy (CE) involves not only frameworks and improvements but also a commitment to digital equity, digital inclusion, and digital social integrity.