Organizational Adoption Factors of Design for Recycling as Circular Business Model Innovation: A Multiple Case Study in the Heavy-Duty Industry

Keywords

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Issue Date

2025-07-03

Language

en

Document type

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Title

ISSN

Volume

Issue

Startpage

Endpage

DOI

Abstract

This thesis explores the organizational adoption of Design for Recycling (DFR) as a circular business model innovation within the heavy-duty industry. While circular business models are becoming increasingly important for sustainability, their adoption in capital-intensive industries comes with unique challenges. The central research question is: What factors determine the adoption of Design for Recycling as a circular business model innovation in the heavy-duty industry? Using an exploratory, multiple case study, three companies were examined through semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate five key factors influencing the adoption of DFR: three internal factors (leadership commitment and strategic prioritization, DFR-specific knowledge and capabilities, and business case viability) and two external factors (regulatory pressure and end-of-life visibility). The research shows that the interpretation and adoption of DFR varies widely among companies depending on their strategic priorities and operational contexts. While proactive leadership, formalized capabilities, and regulatory compliance facilitate adoption, end-of-life visibility remains a universal barrier. This thesis contributes to the literature on circular business models by offering sector-specific insights and provides managers with practical guidance for adopting DFR in the heavy-duty manufacturing industry.

Description

Citation

Supervisor

Faculty

Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen