The challenges associated with securing secondary resources present a significant obstacle to the economic viability and operational feasibility of circular economy models, given their specific characteristics such as variability in quality and quantity, as well as the local dispersion of deposits held by different actors. This thesis explores the territorial organization of actors to address this empirical issue of securing secondary resources, which has been very little studied. To address this question, the research focuses on the case of territorial anaerobic digestion (AD). This case was chosen due to its integration of circular economy principles, the competition and regulatory complexities surrounding the use of biological resources, and the socially complex, multi-actor processes involved in implementing such projects. The methodology is comprehensive, relying on 70 semi-structured interviews, observation complemented by other secondary data. We opted for a longitudinal investigation into the development of four territorial AD projects. The analysis of these projects is based on an analytical framework we developed, grounded in three perspectives: governance, territory, and market emergence. These perspectives allow a better understanding of the dynamics involved in implementing circular economy initiatives. Analysis of the four case studies from these three perspectives highlights several findings. First, we identify a three-phase process for securing secondary resources, emphasizing the strategic approaches adopted by stakeholders to ensure the viability of AD projects. Second, we address the challenges of securing resources in emerging markets, where stakeholders develop tools and exchange modalities to define resource prices and secure supplies. Third, we highlight the importance of territorial proximities in local circular projects, discussing the dynamic role of public actors as facilitators. Finally, we analyze governance structures within AD projects, ranging from firm-centric models to collaborative approaches involving resource suppliers.This thesis mainly contributes to the literature on the circular economy by providing a strategic vision of the process of securing secondary resources in circular projects. The thesis also has managerial implications by offering insights into the governance mechanisms, territorial dynamics, and market arrangements that underpin successful circular economy initiatives.
