Information and communications technology (ICT) equipment plays an important role in the global transition to a circular economy due to its share in electronic waste generation and its composition of both hazardous and valuable materials. Organizations have the potential to make significant impacts on these transitions due to large amounts of ICT equipment under their care. While research into challenges faced by businesses transitioning toward circularity is growing, information on what factors prevent this transition for the ICT sector is limited. In this research we aim to identify what influences decision-making for incorporating circular practices in procurement, maintenance, repair, and disposal of ICT equipment within organizations. We conducted 10 in-depth interviews across four organizations with individuals involved in all stages of decision-making for ICT equipment in order to identify barriers to making decisions that increase ICT related circularity. Through analysis of the transcribed and coded interviews, we identified 16 barriers to incorporating circular ICT practices in the decision-making processes of interviewees and their organizations. We present actionable, ICT specific areas of focus for organizations to increase their ability to enact circular improvements. Specifically, we identified barriers relating to five themes: limitations to suitable and timely ICT equipment, lack of awareness and knowledge about circular ICT, limitations to individual and organizational decision- making about circularity in ICT, limitations based on ICT contracts, supports, and security, and financial and other cost factors for circular ICT. Based on these barriers, we suggest a set of characteristics for a successful transition to more circular ICT in organizations.
The authors are form the TU Delft, Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Department of Design, Organization, and Strategy, Delft, The Netherlands.
Contact Joppe van Driel.