Ways to Circular and Transparent Value Chains

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to increase the knowledge about the implementation of circularity and other sustainability approaches in value chains. The objective is to develop roadmaps for the implementation of digital Circular manufacturing (CMA) and Social-life cycle (S-LCA) assessments in Textile and Clothing (TC) value chains. Implementing these digital assessments in TC value chains can increase their transparency, by validating that product manufacturing safeguards worker wellbeing and the environment. TC is one of the sectors with most critical social and environmental impacts. The roadmaps were developed through a Design Science methodology, combining: i) case studies to understand the practical problem, ii) literature study on CMA and S-LCA to develop the roadmaps, and iii) action research to iteratively apply the roadmaps to the cases and refine them with participants in an EU project, representing the entire TC value chain. The EU project is developing digital sustainability assessments with Blockchain functionality for increased data trustworthiness. This study aims to contribute to theory, practice, and public policies by providing a validated overview of the status, barriers, goals, and systematic activities for the implementation of CMA and S-LCA in TC value chains and for increased sustainability.