Learning Process and Outcomes

Reflecting on my research into the learning process and outcomes associated with circular economy principles,I got to deal with the economic principles and this gave me a still better understanding of Nigerian manufacturing. Initially, before starting this dissertation, I had a basic grasp of circular economy concepts. However, after conducting an in-depth literature review, I realized that my initial perspective was limited, particularly regarding theoretical frameworks like closed supply chains and reverse logistics.

By researching Transaction Cost Theory (TCT) and Resource Dependence Theory (RDT), I studied how these strategic concepts guide sourcing, production, and waste management decisions within global supply chains. Here, I gained a broader understanding of the interaction between minimal transaction costs and resource independence.

Moreover, I explored empirical case studies that helped me strategically align my dissertation. I began identifying real-world challenges and successes associated with implementing circular economy principles. Collaborative initiatives and waste management strategies emerged as significant challenges. In the case of Nigerian Breweries Plc, I observed how engaging stakeholders and aligning corporate objectives with sustainable practices create measurable environmental and economic benefits.

I aim to advance in the field of sustainable supply chain management, and understanding these concepts has been highly valuable. For instance, redesigning products, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and integrating innovative technologies like artificial intelligence have shown me their importance in reducing waste and achieving sustainability goals.

Similarly, the practical implementation of circular economy principles emphasizes the need for cooperation, transparency, and continuous improvement.

This journey has enriched my ability to devise and formulate effective strategies and communicate their value to various stakeholders. My experience as a supply chain manager would play a critical role in which I will be able to identify the major gaps in the circular

economy policies and work with various partners to generate sustainable results. Ultimately, through this dissertation, I will be able to critically analyze and apply theoretical concepts to practical situations.I am glad that I am now able to identify my strong points in strategic thinking and also detect the situations, in which I have to improve in providing resources for the project and notify concerned organizations.

Process and Product

Due to the scale of such a project, the process of writing this dissertation initially felt overwhelming. However, as Williams (2013) states, with proper planning, access to helpful resources, and effective time management, it becomes more manageable. During the final planning stage, my academic advisers emphasized the importance of choosing a topic that piqued my interest. To find a relevant topic that I could complete in a timely manner, I meticulously planned my research proposal by brainstorming various ideas until I found one that resonated deeply with me. Ultimately, I decided to investigate how circular economy principles could be incorporated into global supply chain management to promote sustainability and reduce waste in Nigerian manufacturing companies.

Reflecting on my prior experience writing a dissertation as an undergraduate, I noticed significant improvements in identifying which strategies worked well and which habits to avoid. For instance, breaking the dissertation into manageable sections and planning accordingly allowed me to monitor progress and maintain high quality in my final submission.

Additionally, I realized that self-motivation was essential for steady progress. To meet my goals, I used the Pomodoro technique to write for at least three hours daily, adhering to a carefully drafted plan. This technique was particularly effective when I had other commitments. The table below summarizes the practices and skills that were crucial for my success in making consistent progress:

Examples of Good Practice Skills Required

1. Planning the research question thoroughly, ensuring the topic is interesting

- Creativity

- Research skills

2. Breaking the dissertation into manageable sections, creating sub-sections

- Organisation skills

- Project management

3. Writing a little every day while adhering to a well-drafted plan

- Perseverance

- Planning skills

4. Regular communication with my advisor to understand project expectations

- Communication skills

- Interpersonal skills

While these practices proved beneficial, I recognize areas that could be improved.

The final paper might have been of higher quality if my planning, organization, and flexibility had been better. Although I used the Pomodoro technique and adhered to my initial plan, I didn't anticipate unforeseen circumstances that required adjustments, such as when a power outage due to flooding left me without electricity for an entire weekend. Consequently, in the future, I need to be more flexible in my planning, ensuring that I can adapt to unexpected changes like this and effectively manage such risks. I promised to build buffer time into my schedule for unforeseen delays and be willing to reorganize my outline if new insights or circumstances emerge during research.

Overall, while challenging, the dissertation-writing process was highly rewarding. I gained a deep understanding of how to incorporate circular economy principles into global supply chains and the role these principles play in promoting sustainability in Nigerian

manufacturing companies. The structured approach I used to manage the dissertation's

workflow, combined with regular and much-needed feedback from my advisor, allowed me to

produce a comprehensive final product. It also equipped me with valuable project

management and research skills that will serve me well in the future.

Review of Models Used

Throughout my research, I explored various theoretical models related to circular

economy practices and global supply chain management in Nigerian manufacturing

companies. After evaluating many concepts, I chose to focus on how circular economy

models could be integrated into supply chains to promote sustainability and reduce waste. I

made this decision because I recognized the critical need for evaluating circular economy

practices within the context of the current global business environment. Given the increasing

global discussions surrounding environmental concerns and resource scarcity, Nigerian

manufacturers need strategic approaches that will help them mitigate environmental impact

while maintaining competitiveness.

Interpretivist and Inductive Approaches

The interpretivist philosophy and inductive approach became the foundational

models for the dissertation's research design. To gain a qualitative understanding of diverse

stakeholder perspectives, interpretivism enabled me to investigate circular economy

principles within the context of Nigerian manufacturing through an analysis of stakeholders'

varying beliefs, behaviors, and cultural influences. The inductive approach, which starts from

specific data and patterns to derive broader theories, facilitated a contextual exploration of

circular economy practices and their challenges in supply chains.

Research Onion Framework

The research onion framework, popularized by Saunders et al. (2012), served as a structural guide. The model systematically structured the study's design, starting with philosophies and progressing through approaches, strategies, and data collection methods. It ensured logical alignment from research philosophy to data collection, supporting a comprehensive analysis.

Thematic Analysis

Additionally, I applied thematic analysis, which provided a methodological framework for categorizing and interpreting the data. By coding the data and grouping it into themes and sub-themes, I gained insights into the specific challenges, practices, and success factors of circular economy integration. The table below summarizes some of the key themes and concepts that emerged:

Theme | Why I chose to Incorporate the Theme

Closed Supply Chains | - Fundamental to resource optimization and product lifecycle extension

| - Aligns with circular economy principles

Reverse Logistics | - Crucial for effective waste management and product recovery

| - Enhances material flow visibility

Success Factors | - Identifies drivers like strategic leadership and stakeholder collaboration

| - Highlights technological innovation

Challenges | - Key barriers include infrastructure gaps, regulatory constraints, and technological

limitations

Models Explored in Related Modules

During the program, I encountered additional models and concepts in related coursework, which helped frame my understanding of supply chain management and sustainability. Key models included:

Course Models/Concepts Authors

Global and Transnational

Business

SWOT Analysis

Hill & Westbrook (1997)

Global and Transnational

Business

BCG Matrix Model

Henderson (1970)

Globalization, Innovation,

and Sustainability

Uppsala Model

Vahlne & Johanson (2013)

Globalization, Innovation,

and Sustainability

Glocalization

Robertson (2012)

Why I Chose Circular Economy Models

Truthfully, I have been exposed to many models, but I found circular economy concepts particularly compelling due to their direct relevance to Nigeria's growing manufacturing sector. In my research, the need for a significant managerial solution to create a sustainable, waste-free supply chain became clear, and practical strategies that manufacturers could use to integrate circular principles were essential. I also learned that

adopting circular economy practices not only promotes environmental conservation but also enhances competitive advantage through efficient resource use.

Therefore, the chosen models and frameworks provided a strong foundation for my research, allowing a comprehensive analysis of circular economy integration in supply chains. The interpretivist philosophy and thematic analyses offered valuable insights, while the research onion framework logically structured the study. This integrated approach ultimately deepened my understanding of circular economy models and helped generate insightful recommendations for Nigerian manufacturers to achieve sustainability goals and reduce waste.

References

Henderson, B. D. (1970). The Product Portfolio. Boston Consulting Group.

Hill, T., & Westbrook, R. (1997). SWOT Analysis: It's Time for a Product Recall. Long Range Planning, 30(1), 46–52.

Robertson, R. (2012). Globalisation or Glocalisation? Journal of International Communication, 18(2), 191–208.

Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2012). Research Methods for Business Students (6th ed.). Pearson Education.

Vahlne, J. E., & Johanson, J. (2013). The Uppsala Model on Evolution of the Multinational Business Enterprise: From Internalization to Coordination of Networks. International Marketing Review, 30(3), 189–210.