Open Access
Review
SciPap-2090
Industry 4.0 Technologies in Circular Innovation: A Review of Sustainable Value Chain Studies
by
Turan Azizov 1,* 
1 Department of Business Administration, School of Business and Governance, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 3, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
* Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract: This paper explores the intersection of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and the Circular Economy (CE). The paper's focus is to demonstrate how different factors, such as advanced technologies, can enable the transition of large corporations toward sustainable and circular value chains. The umbrella review has been conducted to identify key organizational enablers and technological innovations driving circularity in such organizations from an academic viewpoint. The paper presents a circular innovation framework in which technological and managerial aspects have been integrated to understand their holistic effect on different value chain steps, from product design to reverse flows. While technological aspects include multiple I4.0 technologies, such as additive manufacturing (AM), blockchain, and big data, and their use cases in the circular value chain, managerial aspects emphasize the role of stakeholders, leadership awareness, and cross-functional collaboration. The study mentions the need for a holistic approach involving all ecosystem actors to achieve a regenerative and sustainable future. This framework not only provides contributions to the academic world but also offers practical implications for large organizations seeking to enhance their circularity. The research concludes with recommendations for future studies to focus on in-depth analysis.
Keywords: Industry 4.0, Value Chain, Circular Economy, Circular Innovation Framework, Umbrella Review
JEL classification: D22 - Firm Behavior: Empirical Analysis, L60 - General, M15 - IT Management, O32 - Management of Technological Innovation and &, Q01 - Sustainable Development, Q56 - Environment and Development • Environment and Trade • Sustainability • Environmental Accounts and Accounting • Environmental Equity • Population Growth
Received: 5 June 2024 / Revised: 10 November 2024 / Accepted: 10 November 2024 / Published: 17 November 2024
