IT for Circularity: Market Requirements and Technology Solutions

Description

This IDC Perspective examines emerging technology solutions that support companies' circular economy initiatives. As market, regulatory, and other stakeholder pressures for circularity increase, it is essential for companies worldwide to gain an understanding of technology enablers that advance circularity and sustainability goals as well as provide business value. This report provides an overview of such solutions, including examples of tech vendor offerings."Circularity is no longer optional - it's the key to increasing resilience, accelerating innovation, and future-proofing your business in a world of rising risks and regulatory demands," said Katharina Grimme, EMEA Sustainability lead, IDC.

Product Code: EUR153888825

Executive Snapshot

Situation Overview

The Concept of Circularity and the Circular Economy
The Business Need for Circularity
- Resource and Supply Chain Risk
- Tightening Sustainability and Circularity Regulations and Disclosure Requirements
- Stakeholder Expectations for Credible, Auditable Sustainability Performance
- Cost and Efficiency Pressures
- Environmental and Social Impact
The Variable State of Circularity Among Businesses Worldwide
Business Value Benefits Expected from Circularity
Key Inhibitors to Circularity
Technologies Deployed for Circularity
- ESG Data and Sustainability Data Platforms
- Traceability and Digital Product Passports
- Supplier and Secondary-Material Networks
- IoT/IIoT Devices, Networks, and Connectivity
- Digital Twins and Simulation
- AI/ML and Agentic AI for Circular Decisions
- Asset Life-Cycle and Maintenance Platforms (Life Extension)
- Reverse Logistics and Service-Parts Orchestration
- Automation of Measurement, Assurance, and Compliance
The Stages of Circularity and Vendor Offerings
- Design and Source
- Make
- Use and Operate
- Take-Back and Recover
Life-Cycle Enablers