Designing Internet of Things Systems for Circular Economy and Digital Product Passports – A Requirements Engineering Perspective

Abstract

The proliferation of Internet of Things technologies presents unprecedented opportunities for enhancing sustainability through the principles of the Circular Economy. This research explores the integration of Digital Product Passports within Internet of Things systems to support Circular Economy goals, focusing on the Requirements Engineering perspective. Key objectives include identifying essential requirements for Internet of Things systems, developing a design blueprint, and establishing validation techniques to ensure system compliance with Circular Economy principles and Digital Product Passports integration. The methodology involves a systematic literature review with thematic analysis adapted to the Requirements Engineering process, and the use of FURPS+ and MoSCoW frameworks for categorizing and prioritizing requirements. Findings highlight the critical functional, non-functional, domain-specific, and application-specific requirements necessary for Internet of Things systems to support Circular Economy and Digital Product Passports. The research findings indicate that properly engineered Internet of Things systems facilitate the transition from a linear to a smart digital circular economy by enhancing resource efficiency, minimizing waste, and promoting sustainability.