Three essays on the implementation of circular procurement management in italian electrical and electronic equipment (eee) supply chain

Circular procurement, recognized as a key aspect of achieving a sustainable circular economy, has gained prominence as a pivotal tool in recent years. Focused on transforming production and consumption patterns towards sustainability, it plays a crucial role in the circular supply chain. While various studies have explored circularity in different contexts, there is a notable gap in understanding the procurement perspective within the circular economy. Acknowledging the significant ripple effect of procurement practices, this comprehensive thesis fills the gap through a combination of state-of-the-art analyses. The first essay undertakes a thorough review of 100 peer-reviewed research papers, identifying 55 barriers and enablers across micro, meso, and macro levels. The findings emphasize the need for a 360-degree stakeholder approach and advocate for a revamping of sourcing strategies and procurement operations. The study serves as a foundation for academics to develop empirical frameworks and offers valuable insights for practitioners, policymakers, and decision-makers striving to align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 12 by integrating circularity into procurement. The second essay focuses on circular procurement (CP) integration in the electrical and electronic equipment supply chain of Italy. Employing interpretive structural modeling (ISM), the research identifies 21 barriers and classifies them using the MICMAC technique, revealing their driving and dependence powers. The hierarchical model aids in identifying crucial obstacles, guiding iv immediate interventions, and contributing to the understanding of organizational theories in responsible procurement management. The third essay addresses the lack of empirical research on circular procurement in the private sector, specifically in the Italian electrical and electronic equipment supply chain. Conducting qualitative exploratory research through semi-structured interviews, the study identifies key drivers, enablers, and barriers. Commitment to sustainability, long-term cost savings, changing stakeholder perceptions, collaboration, and regulatory forces emerge as drivers, while circularity scorecards, supplier availability, and take-back programs are significant enablers. The study contributes fifteen propositions and a theoretical framework, offering valuable insights for industrial practitioners navigating the implementation of circular procurement. This pioneering research adds essential knowledge to the evolving landscape of circular procurement literature. This thesis offers valuable contributions to academia by providing frameworks for future research on circular procurement and expanding theoretical understanding. Practically, it guides decisionmakers with actionable insights, enabling strategic changes for organizations embracing circularity. Industry professionals, particularly in the electrical and electronic equipment supply chain in Italy, benefit from sector-specific applications and risk mitigation strategies. Policymakers can leverage the findings to shape supportive environments, emphasizing the crucial role of government support and balanced regulatory frameworks in promoting sustainable procurement practices. Overall, the thesis bridges theory and practice, advancing the discourse on circular procurement's role in achieving broader sustainability goals.