Blockchain Technology and the Circular Economy: An Exploration

Abstract

Overconsumption of resources has become a global issue. To deal with resource depletion and mitigate these impending crises, the circular economy (CE) holds some promise. A wide range of performance measurements for CE have emerged over the years. However, with increasing complexity of supply chains, appropriate and potentially new performance measurements are needed for effective CE management. Blockchain is an innovative technology that may advance CE development. This chapter provides an overview of the potential linkages between blockchain technology and CE from sustainability perspectives – the specific focus will be on the performance measurement of reverse logistics activities. One of the main findings indicates that both blockchain and CE performance measurements – especially reverse logistics processes – are still evolving in both theory and practical developments. Future directions with a critical analysis including research and theoretical applications will conclude this chapter.

Citation

Kouhizadeh, M., Zhu, Q., Alkhuzaim, L. and Sarkis, J. (2022), "Blockchain Technology and the Circular Economy: An Exploration", Bals, L., Tate, W.L. and Ellram, L.M. (Ed.) Circular Economy Supply Chains: From Chains to Systems, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 189-213. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83982-544-620221010