Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Reza Mokhtari Malekabadi, Associate Professor Department of Tourism, Faculty of Geographical Sciences and Planning, University of Isfahan, , Iran
2
PhD student in Geography and Urban Planning, Department of Geography, Najaf Abad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najaf Abad, Iran
10.22034/gp.2026.70052.3478
Abstract
Objective: This research aimed to investigate and analyze the role of the circular economy in the transformation of Iran's urban management system, focusing on Isfahan city as a case study.
Methods: This study is applied in purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of data collection and analysis. Field data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire, the validity and reliability of which were confirmed, from 384 citizens of Isfahan through multi-stage cluster sampling. The data were analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and a One-Sample T-Test in SPSS and AMOS software.
Results: The findings of the confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the desirable fit of the research's conceptual model. The results of the T-test indicated that the overall status of the circular economy in Isfahan's urban management, with a mean score of 2.75 (on a 5-point scale), was significantly below the average. The "Governance and Policy" dimension, with a mean of 2.45, was identified as the weakest dimension. The "Technology and Innovation" (mean 2.80) and "Economic and Market" (mean 2.70) dimensions also showed an unfavorable status. In contrast, the "Socio-Spatial Structure" dimension, with a mean of 3.05, was rated as average, and the "Citizen Awareness and Participation" criterion (mean 3.20) was recognized as a relative strength.
Conclusions: Despite having suitable social potential and human capital, the city of Isfahan faces challenges in transitioning towards a circular economy due to significant obstacles in the dimensions of governance, technology, and economics. Success in this transition requires an integrated and multi-dimensional approach. Accordingly, operational strategies are proposed, including formulating a strategic document for Isfahan's circular economy, revising construction regulations, developing an ecosystem for circular innovation and businesses, establishing an innovation center, designing supportive financial mechanisms, and developing recycling infrastructure.
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