Work

Transitioning to Circular Business Model: Stakeholder-Driven Insights on Hurdles and Solutions From the Scottish Electronics Industry

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The electronics industry struggles to integrate closed loops because macro-level sustainability targets frequently clash with micro-level operational realities. Using an inductive qualitative approach, this study explores value chain breakpoints, multi-level barriers, and collaborative solutions within Scotland’s electronics ecosystem through focus group discussions. The study yields three core findings. First, capital-intensive machinery maintains functional circular loops, while consumer hardware remains linear due to end-of-life information asymmetries. Second, non-disassemblable hardware designs and high diagnostic labour costs render localised repair uneconomical. Third, overcoming these hurdles requires solutions like AI-driven tools, Digital Product Passports, component-retention-based extended producer responsibility metrics, and secondary warranties. The study extends the dynamic capabilities framework to ecosystem-level relational routines, advocates shifting Extended Producer Responsibility metrics to component-retention indicators and provides managers with an operational playbook to de-risk circular transitions.

Source: The Journal of Environment & Development

DOI: 10.1177/10704965261504831

Authors: Jawad Abbas, Nuran Acur, Carlos Carbajal Pina

Institution: University of Glasgow

Language: English

Topic: Sustainable Supply Chain Management

Subfield: Strategy and Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650