Search Results (767)

This theoretical essay aims to analyze some of the socio-economic innovations introduced by Platform Capitalism Specifically, it focuses on two main aspects: first, the digital platform as a radical organizational innovation. Digital platforms represent a structural novelty in the market economy, signaling a new organization of production and labor. Second, the essay examines the role of platforms in directly generating value through the concept of “network value”. To this end, it explores the function of “business intelligence” as a strategic and competitive tool. Finally, the paper discusses the key issues associated with platform capitalism, which could threaten its social sustainability and contribute to economic and financial instability. These issues include the increasing commodification of everyday activities, the devaluation of paid labor in favor of free production driven by platform users (the so-called prosumers), and the emergence of proprietary and financial monopolies. Hence, digital platforms do not inherently ensure comprehensive social and environmental sustainability unless supported by targeted economic policy interventions. Conclusively, it is emphasized that defining robust social welfare frameworks—which account for emerging value creation processes—is imperative. Simultaneously, policymakers must incentivize the proliferation of cooperative platforms capable of fostering experimental circular economy models aligned with ecological sustainability. Full article

Sustainability reporting has evolved into a multidimensional field encompassing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosure, integrated reporting (IR), and circular economy (CE) practices. This study aims to map the intellectual and thematic landscape of sustainability reporting research over the past decade, with a focus on sectoral differentiation. Drawing on bibliometric analysis of 1611 scientific articles indexed in Scopus, this research applies co-word analysis, thematic mapping, and bibliographic coupling to identify prevailing trends, conceptual clusters, and knowledge gaps. The results reveal a clear progression from fragmented debates toward a more integrated discourse combining ESG, IR, and CE frameworks. In the real economy, sustainability reporting demonstrates a mature operational focus, supported by standardized frameworks and extensive empirical evidence. In contrast, the banking sector exhibits emerging engagement with sustainability disclosure, while the public sector remains at an earlier stage of conceptual and practical development. Despite the increasing convergence of research streams, gaps persist in linking reporting practices to tangible sustainability outcomes, integrating digital innovations, and addressing social dimensions of circularity. This study concludes that further interdisciplinary and sector-specific research is essential to advance credible, comparable, and decision-useful reporting practices capable of supporting the transition toward sustainable and circular business models. Full article

The purpose of this study is to synthesize existing peer-reviewed literature on fashion renting and provide insights into its role within the broader framework of sustainable consumption and business practices within different cultural contexts, while also guiding future research efforts. This review includes only peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters in English, with the search conducted up to 31 March 2025. A total of 95 academic papers published between 2010 and 2025 were analyzed to explore the evolving landscape of fashion rental consumption and business practices. NVivo 14 was used for the analysis of the collected literature. The findings revealed six key motivating benefits and six significant barriers that influence consumer participation in fashion renting. Additionally, five success factors and four critical challenges were identified as shaping the development of the fashion rental market. This research represents the first attempt to synthesize literature from both the consumer and business perspectives of fashion renting. The findings provide a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics related to fashion rental consumption and business practices, shedding light on the key factors that support the sustainability of fashion rental businesses as well as the challenges they face. Both theoretical and practical implications are discussed, offering valuable guidance for researchers and fashion industry stakeholders. Full article

This study discusses the role of organizational pro-environmental behavior in driving sustainable development. Studies of green practices highlight their capacity to achieve ecological goals while delivering economic sustainability with business strategies for sustainable businesses and advancing environmental sustainability law. It also considers how the development of artificial intelligence, resource management, big data analysis, blockchain, and the Internet of Things enables companies to maximize supply efficiency and address evolving environmental regulations and sustainable decision-making. Through digital technology, businesses can facilitate supply chain transparency, adopt circular economy practices, and produce in an equitable and environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, intelligent business management practices, such as effective decision-making and sustainability reporting, enhance compliance with authorities while ensuring long-term profitability from a legal perspective. Integrating business innovation and digital technology within legal entities enhances economic efficiency, reduces operational costs, improves environmental sustainability, reduces paper usage, and lowers the carbon footprint, creating a double-benefit model of long-term resilience. The policymakers’ role in formulating policy structures that lead to green digital innovation is also to ensure that economic development worldwide is harmonized with environmental protection and international governance. Using example studies and empirical research raises awareness about best practices in technology-based sustainability initiatives across industries and nations, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

Leadership is essential for promoting the circular economy (CE) by fostering systemic thinking, promoting resource efficiency, and driving innovative practices that close material loops and minimize environmental impact. In addition, the principles of CE recommend changing production chains to balance economic development, sustainability, and social well-being. This study examines a tertiary packaging company’s circular economy implementation, by using a framework and a circular business model canvas (CBMC) and by identifying the challenges and opportunities for improving environmental management. The method was a participatory research case study using interviews and frameworks. In the context of this company, servitization in logistics was highlighted as an alternative to overcome growth challenges and to add value; however, the company faces significant challenges in implementing it. In addition, it is necessary to increase consciousness among those involved about the concept of the CE and its benefits to improve operational efficiency and review product design to expand environmental management. This research concludes that servitization (as a circular economy strategy), environmental education, and innovation practices can help companies achieve greater financial performance in the packaging industry and contribute to sustainable development goals—SDG achievements. Full article

Although linear overproduction and overconsumption have benefited businesses, they have created an unsustainable society. Converting wood waste into construction material can support the transition to a circular economy. The mechanical properties of beams constructed from wood waste were measured. Squares with 50, 60, and 70 mm side lengths were glued to create beams, to which the three-point test method was applied parallel to the fibres. The stiffness and moduli of elasticity and rupture were analysed with standard industrial statistical techniques. Specifically, a two-stage analysis was performed using the normal distribution and Shewhart control charts. Changes of 100 mm in width and height and 200 mm in length caused a change of 200–400 N/mm² in elasticity and 500–1300 MNmm² in stiffness. Modulus of rupture values were relatively comparable, as they were determined by the properties of oak wood, from which the beams were made. The observed differences in the tested mechanical parameters will be useful in the optimisation of furniture construction, with our research suggesting that it is possible to predict mechanical properties from the dimensions of the waste-wood pieces. Ultimately, this should help to design sustainable furniture that is aesthetic, functional, and safe. Full article

This study examines the awareness and implementation of Circular Economy (CE) principles within Chile’s mining sector, which represents the world’s leading copper producer. We employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative semi-structured interviews, to evaluate perceptions and implementation levels of CE practices across diverse organizational contexts. Our findings reveal a pronounced knowledge gap: while 73.3% of mining professionals reported familiarity with CE concepts, only 57.3% could provide accurate definitions. State-owned mining companies demonstrated substantially higher CE implementation rates, with 36.5% participating in eco-industrial collaborations and 51% conducting environmental audits, compared to their private counterparts. Small enterprises (1–100 employees) exhibited particularly limited engagement, as demonstrated by 71.8% lacking established sustainability reporting mechanisms. A considerable implementation gap was also identified; although 94.8% of respondents considered CE principles integral to business ethics and 89.6% recognized CE as essential for securing a social license to operate, only 20.8% reported that their organizations maintained dedicated CE units. The research presents actionable recommendations for policymakers, including targeted financial incentives and training programs for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in mining services, the establishment of standardized CE performance metrics for the sector, and the integration of CE principles into strategic management education to accelerate sustainable transformation within Chile’s critical mining industry. Full article

Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) emerges as a vital catalyst for inclusive growth and sustainable development, particularly in emerging economies where the manufacturing sector is central to economic progress. This study offers an in-depth analysis of the current research landscape on SSCM in the context of developing nations, outlining key theoretical frameworks and advocating for a solid conceptual foundation alongside a structured agenda for future research initiatives. This study employs a structured literature review technique to analyze 92 published articles indexed by Scopus from 2013 to 2024, revealing a burgeoning trend in the subject of global supply chains in developing nations. The analysis identifies key keywords such as “sustainable supply chain management,” “manufacturing industries,” “inclusive growth,” and “supply chain and sustainability,” and develops a conceptual model that elucidates how SSCM practices can be effectively integrated into manufacturing sectors to facilitate equitable growth and enhance business competitiveness. This work’s novelty lies in employing a systematic literature review to develop a holistic SSCM conceptual framework constructed upon six primary drivers: business model innovation, inclusive SSCM, corporate governance and leadership, technological and innovation capabilities, policy and regulatory environment, and circular feedback. This model addresses the ambiguity surrounding SSCM and inclusive growth, providing a robust foundation for future research and performance measurement. This study contributes to the field by providing a practical and theoretically grounded framework for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to implement impactful and effective SSCM initiatives in developing nations’ manufacturing sectors to promote inclusive growth and sustainable development. Full article

This study analyses aspects related to the electromobility transition. Emerging technologies have enabled the production and commercialisation of electric vehicles to reduce polluting emissions. However, significant obstacles are present in this global transition. The analysis identifies that public policies play a crucial role in the development of electromobility, and emphasises how new business models in electromobility are emerging to satisfy changing customer demands. Concerns related to raw materials extraction, battery disposal, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) integration are also important to consider. The relationship between technologically advanced countries and raw material-producing nations must balance socioeconomic, historical, labour, and ecological factors. In order to have a standard reference, this study considers for the analysis the political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors (PESTLE). An analysis of future scenarios considering pessimistic and optimistic trends revealed that, compared with the actual trends, important actions must be taken to develop electromobility not only from the technological aspect. These results provide a comprehensive analysis of electromobility sustainability and its importance for multidisciplinary stakeholders related to the actual challenges towards electromobility, the electric network capabilities, and the importance of creating new jobs and products based on a circular and sustainable economy. Full article

This study addresses the multifaceted challenges inherent in implementing effective smart-city waste-management systems. Recent global trends indicate increased adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies—such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics—to optimize waste collection and processing. The central research question investigates the role of innovative business models and sustainable decision-making frameworks in advancing smart waste management within urban environments. This research integrates three interrelated domains: business-model innovation, smart-city paradigms, and sustainability in waste management. Its novelty lies in synthesizing these domains, conducting a comparative analysis of best practices from leading European smart cities, and proposing a conceptual framework to guide sustainable decision-making. Methodologically, the study employs a systematic literature review, case-study analyses, and the synthesis of theoretical and empirical data. Key findings demonstrate that innovative business models—such as product-as-a-service, circular-economy approaches, and waste-as-a-service—substantially enhance the sustainability and operational efficiency of urban waste systems. However, many cities lack comprehensive strategies for integrating these models, highlighting the necessity for deliberate planning and active stakeholder engagement. Based on these insights, the study offers actionable recommendations for policymakers and urban managers to embed sustainable business models into smart-city waste infrastructures. These contributions aim to promote the development of resilient, efficient, and environmentally responsible waste-management systems in smart cities. Full article

This study investigates the empowering role of public–private partnerships (PPPs) in the economic sustainability of waste management (ESW) and the circular industry economy (CIE), specifically in the small, rapidly industrialising Emirate of Ajman, UAE. Embracing a circular economy is vital for the sustainability agenda while forging a transformative commitment to planetary health (PH) in a manner that is especially crucial for small states with limited carrying capabilities. A quantitative methodological orientation is employed in a survey-based research design, followed by the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling statistical technique to test the hypothesised relationships. Sampling involved the three sub-populations of government employees (n = 123), managers/employees of private waste collection businesses (n = 106), and employees of private industrial waste generation industries (n = 276). Findings indicate that PPP empowerment positively impacts ESW and contributes to the creation of CIE. Moreover, ESW fosters the growth of CIE in Ajman. Notably, the perspectives of government stakeholders differ from those of non-government actors. This research underscores the significance of PPP empowerment in the development of CIE towards SDGs 11, 12, and 17, emphasising the mediating role of ESW between PPPs and CIE in small, rapidly industrialising states. The study recommends that the Ajman government implement training and social initiatives aimed at aligning the sustainability perspectives of all stakeholders involved in waste management to promote the mutual benefits of “people, places, and planet”. Full article

The transition to a circular economy is essential for enhancing sustainability and resource efficiency, particularly in forestry-dependent regions. This study examines circular economy business models (CEBMs) in Kouvola, Finland, focusing on the utilization of forestry by-products. It compares two case studies: Keltakangas Waste Station, which processes wood waste into biogas, and Koumet, a forestry company producing biochar. Using a comparative case study approach, this research integrates financial analysis (2020–2023), interviews with managers, and policy reviews to assess economic performance, scalability, and environmental impact. Additionally, this study introduces a generalizable framework—Scalability Path Dependency (SPD)—which theorizes how early strategic decisions shape the long-term growth trajectories of circular business models. The findings reveal that Keltakangas follows a capital-intensive model with declining profit margins, while Koumet operates a resource-efficient model with stable but low profitability. Their scaling strategies diverge: Keltakangas relies on external financing for expansion, whereas Koumet emphasizes cost efficiency and market diversification. Despite ongoing challenges related to infrastructure, regulation, and financial viability, both models contribute meaningfully to circularity. This study offers actionable insights for policymakers and businesses aiming to support sustainable forestry practices. Full article

The circular economy (CE) is increasingly important in ensuring sustainable development. Although interactions among stakeholders are essential to achieving the CE, existing methods associated with life cycle design do not fully consider the synergies between multiple product life cycles (PLCs). Therefore, this paper proposes a platform-aggregated life cycle ecosystem (PF-LCE). The PF-LCE consists of multiple PLCs along with a platform that enables the exchange of goods and data among different PLCs. We also propose a method for supporting the conceptual design of the PF-LCE. Our method includes a four-step process to help exploit the interactions and synergistic effects occurring across PLCs at the design stage. We then use a simulated case study of PLCs sharing goods and data in the shoe industry, considering scenarios ranging from business-as-usual to full integration of the platform with four service providers. The results demonstrate that the designed PF-LCE delivers an increase in profits to service providers alongside reduced costs for consumers. CO₂ emissions also decrease. Therefore, the design method that we propose has the potential to enhance current implementations of the CE in terms of business revenues, consumer satisfaction, and environmental sustainability. Full article

Heightened environmental policies along with the necessity for a resilient supply chain (SC) network have driven companies to adopt circular economy (CE) strategies. Although CE initiatives have shown significant effects on SC operations, the advent of digital technologies is encouraging businesses to digitize their SCs. However, the relationship connecting SC digitalization with CE practices remains underexplored. This study presents a novel framework that bridges the gap between CE principles and SC digitalization by identifying and prioritizing critical success factors (CSFs) for implementing SC4.0 in a circular economy context. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to determine CSFs and approaches relevant to Supply Chain 4.0 (SC4.0), and expert insights were gathered using the Delphi method for final validation. To capture the complex interrelationships among these factors, the study employed a combined approach using Intuitionistic Fuzzy Set (IFS), Analytic Network Process (ANP), decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory, and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) techniques to assess the CSFs and strategies. The findings highlight that an intelligent work environment, performance tracking, and data accuracy and pertinence are the top three critical CSFs for SC digitalization. Furthermore, enhancing analytical capabilities, optimizing processes through data-driven methods, and developing a unified digital platform were identified as key strategies for transitioning to SC4.0. By embedding CE principles into the evaluation of digital SC transformation, this research contributes a novel interdisciplinary perspective and offers practical guidance for industries aiming to achieve both digital resilience and environmental sustainability. The study delivers a comprehensive evaluation of CSFs for SC4.0, applicable to a variety of sectors aiming for digital and sustainable transformation. Full article

The world is facing unprecedented sustainability challenges, and the circular economy (CE) can provide some solutions to promote more sustainable practices among companies. This study aimed at exploring, discovering, analyzing and synthetizing approaches related to the 10R principles, the CE principles and CE business models in the shipping sector in Finland. The research approach was based on qualitative research that aimed at identifying approaches related to the selected three main elements: (1) the 10R principles; (2) the CE principles; and (3) CE business models. The findings of this study suggest that most approaches that were identified were related to the following 10R principles: (1) replacement of products or making of products redundant (R0); (2) rethinking of products (R1); and (3) reduction in the use of resources in the manufacturing and use of products (R2). Only a few approaches could be identified that were related to the reuse of products (R3), the recycling of materials (R8) and recovery of materials (R9). There were typically no or only a few approaches identified that were related to the repair of products (R4), refurbishment of products (R5), remanufacturing of products (R6) and repurposing of products and their parts (R7). For many companies, there were no identified approaches related to the R3–R7 principles. Regarding the CE principles, the findings of this study suggest that quite a number of approaches were identified that were related to the circulation of products and materials and that many approaches were identified that were related to the elimination of waste and pollution. Typically only a few approaches were identified for the regeneration of nature. Regarding the CE business models, the findings suggest that quite a number of approaches were identified that were related to the circular supply models, supply chains and inputs, and there were many approaches for resource recovery. Only a few approaches were identified that were related to product use/life extension, sharing and sharing platforms, and product-as-a-service and product-service systems. Full article