Multi-Stakeholder Data Sharing for the Circular Economy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55845/joce-2026-41304Keywords:
Data Sharing, Multi-Stakeholder, Circular Economy, Digital Technologies, Digital Product PassportAbstract
The transition to a circular economy (CE) depends on effective data sharing across fragmented value chains. Although digital technologies enable the tracking of resources, products, and processes, relevant data are dispersed among stakeholders with divergent interests, capabilities, and regulatory constraints. This article conceptualizes multi-stakeholder data sharing as a central governance challenge for the CE and identifies three core tensions: transparency versus confidentiality, granularity versus feasibility, and multiplicity of platforms versus standardization. We derive implications for governance frameworks and we outline key directions for future research.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Leona Henry, Francesca Ciulli (Author)

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