Circular Manufacturing System in the Brazilian Furniture Industry: Study of the Transition from the Linear to the Circular Model
We live in a society where the linear manufacturing system predominates, which is based on raw material extraction, product manufacturing, use and disposal. From the perspective of raw materials only, the linear model is not sustainable, as natural resources are finite. The circular economy establishes conditions for the best use of natural resources and requires companies to adjust their business models to defend environmental values and sustainable development of society. The principles of circular systems are extraction, fabrication, use, reuse, reconditioning, remanufacturing and finally recycling. The circular economy presents a strategic vision of new business models, however, it does not have a clear path that allows transforming traditional linear manufacturing systems into circular systems. In Brazil, it has been observed that the furniture manufacturing industry has a great potential to transition from the linear to the circular model, as it has the necessary technology and adaptability to circular design and reverse logistics. That said, this work aims to propose an alternative manufacturing model to the linear model of the Brazilian furniture industry that is capable of reducing equivalent CO2 emissions, reducing the extraction of natural resources and reducing the environmental impact.