This paper explores different narratives that could shape different future circular economy (CE) scenarios which integrate the notion of justice. Based on the literature on CE and futures, we identify five dimensions that could be used to characterise CE scenarios: (i) materiality, (ii) politics, (iii) organising, (iv) wellbeing and (v) science, technology and innovation. Initially, we discuss how these dimensions are shaped in the mainstream conceptualisation of the CE. This leads us to investigate the main contradictions and limitations of current hegemonic narratives to shaping a just production-consumption model embedded in a natural world with limits. Subsequently, we use these dimensions to create potential just CE scenarios. By doing this, we define some common grounds to incorporate the notion of justice within the literature on circular futures. Results show that a just CE could be grounded in five core counter-hegemonic narratives: (i) social and biophysical worlds are interdependent, (ii) CE is a political concept and people are at the core of the CE activities, (iii) participation and inclusion legitimise the decision-making process in the transition to the CE, (iv) equity, care, distribution and plurality are essential pillars to integrate the notion of justice, and (v) science, technology and innovation embrace conviviality and post-normal science. These results are not intended to be exhaustive nor definitive, but they just aspire to encourage research of just circular futures. Accordingly, we give some insights for a possible future research agenda that aims at incorporating the notion of justice within CE research. 

Brais Suárez Eiroa is a postdoctoral researcher in Ecological Economics and Political Ecology. His research explores the relationship between the economic system, the environment and the social context. Thus, his research is conducted in a transdisciplinary way. Currently, he develops his research in the Post-Growth Innovation Lab at the University of Vigo. Moreover, he works under the European H2020 JUST2CE project, which aims at understanding who wins and who loses in the transition to the circular economy. In this regard, Brais investigates the limits of the circular economy to promote more egalitarian societies within a finite planet.