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Unpacking the Drivers of Circular Economy in Tourism: An Interpretive Structural Modeling and Argumentative Discourse Analysis

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Abstract

This study aims to derive, define and identify drivers of a circular economy in tourism (CET) to support strategic and operational transitions toward sustainable tourism systems. For this, it utilises a modified total interpretive structural modeling (m-TISM), cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis and the novel Influencer-Facilitator-Initiative (IFI) framework. Theoretically, it is based on a three-staged systematic literature review process, alongside expert consultation from industry and academia experts working in middle/senior positions. While the interpretive analysis reveals the hierarchical interactions and interdependences between the drivers of a CET, the IFI framework translates them into actionable strategies for addressing sustainable development goals (SDGs). In terms of novelty, it is among the first to synthesise interpretive logic with argumentative analysis, providing an emerging methodological synthesis in sustainability research. The theoretical contribution of the study lies in its advancement of a systems perspective towards a CET. Through its in-depth analysis of the drivers of a CET, it unpacks the complex relationships between tourists, hosts, stakeholders and the interactions that bind them. The findings illustrate how collaborative efforts can orchestrate, localise and expedite a CET. The study is relevant for policymakers, sustainability practitioners and researchers seeking to implement and operationalise circularity in tourism and sustainability in general.

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  1. Department of Management Studies, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, 600036, India

    Mayank Pathak

  2. School of Business, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, 781039, Guwahati, India

    Pinosh Kumar Hajoary

  3. Centre for Supply Chain Improvement, University of Derby, Derby, UK

    Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes

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Pathak, M., Hajoary, P.K. & Garza-Reyes, J.A. Unpacking the Drivers of Circular Economy in Tourism: An Interpretive Structural Modeling and Argumentative Discourse Analysis. Circ.Econ.Sust. 6, 246 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43615-026-00797-3

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