Author:

Keywords:

Circular economy, Fairphone, NGOs, non-state participation

Abstract:

This paper provides an analysis of non-state actor involvement in that transition by studying the case of Fairphone. It is argued that a more systematic understanding of NGO efforts at the international level could lead to recommendations on an enhanced cooperation between NGOs, governments and other actors. The paper offers an overview of how our case study Fairphone alters consumption and production processes and engages both business actors and consumers in that transition. After the analysis on the different mechanisms adopted by Fairphone to alter consumption and production processes, we explain what role the Dutch government has played to support Fairphone. In the case of Fairphone, the Dutch government played an important role as a broker. By setting-up the Conflict-Free Tin Initiative (CFTI), the Dutch government organized a multi-stakeholder platform that enabled learning and network processes. The paper ends with a discussion on the different roles for the government in the transition to sustainable materials management identified by the literature and exemplified by the case of Fairphone. The conclusion presents a reflection upon the various roles for the government and the broader collaboration between governments, non-state actors and other actors in the transition to sustainable materials management.