Exploring Power Dynamics on Digital Product Passport Adoption: An fsQCA Analysis of Sustainability Pathways in Circular Value Chains
Author(s)
Date Issued
May 28, 2026
Type
conferenceObject
Abstract
This study examines how inter-organisational power dynamics shape Digital Product Passport (DPP) adoption and influence sustainability outcomes in circular value chains for raw material recovery from e-waste. Building on market failure theory and resource dependency theory, the paper examines the DPP within the power relations linking producers, recyclers, policymakers, and raw material producers. To this end, the study adopts an analytic scenario design and applies fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to a set of actor configurations. The findings show that high sustainability emerges when enabling policy support is combined with strong producer circularity, while downstream dynamics, such as recycler adoption and incumbent retaliation, mainly influence the extent of the sustainability gains achieved. The study contributes to research on circular value chains and digital infrastructures by showing that sustainability outcomes are shaped by multi-level configurations of power and actor choices, rather than by isolated interventions.
Additional information
Circular Value Chain, Power Dynamics, Digital Product Passport, Sustainability, Resource Dependency Theory
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
Name
WOA MAIN copia.pdf
Size
284.8 KB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
f005f9f0a58479484b8180ab999fb56f