Toward a definition of waste accounting in a circular economy: Evidence from auditors

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13135/2704-9906/12392

Keywords:

Waste accounting, Environmental accounting, Auditors, Circular economy, Sustainability reporting

Abstract

In the European Union, many companies are introducing accounting mechanisms to circular economy models for a "zero waste" production. In this context, this study contributes to the knowledge base on circular accounting and to the definition of the emerging waste accounting discipline, which is still in development. Within the Stakeholder theoretical framework, this study frames waste accounting as the intersection of various accounting areas relevant to waste management in a circular economy and auditing processes. The auditors' perception concerning the introduction and reporting of circular processes and waste-related accounting in companies is analysed through 94 hybrid interviews conducted with auditors in Spain.

Author Biographies

Rubén Rodríguez-Hernandez, Universidad de Zaragoza

University of Zaragoza, Department of Accounting and Finance, Gran Vía 18, Zaragoza  (Spain)

Alfonso Aranda-Usón, Universidad de Zaragoza

Associate Professor

University of Zaragoza, Department of Accounting and Finance, Gran Vía 18, Zaragoza (Spain)

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Published

2026-04-29

How to Cite

Rodríguez-Hernandez, R., Scarpellini, S., & Aranda-Usón, A. (2026). Toward a definition of waste accounting in a circular economy: Evidence from auditors. European Journal of Social Impact and Circular Economy, 7(1), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.13135/2704-9906/12392

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Research Paper