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Recycling through technology diffusion for circular economy in Europe: A decomposed assessment

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  • Islam, Md. Monirul
  • Mahmudul Alam, Md.
  • Sohag, Kazi

Abstract

Data management in the recycling business through technology diffusion is crucial for the success of the circular economy. This study analyzes the role of the Internet of Things and industrial patents in circular economy trade, including recyclable material exports and employment in the recycling industry in Europe from 2000 to 2021. The research employs the quantiles-via-moments approach and finds a consistent positive influence of the Internet of Things on recyclable material exports and employment in the recycling sector across all quantiles. Additionally, industrial patents positively affect recyclable material exports in all quantiles and employment levels at higher and extreme quantiles. Regulatory quality positively impacts employment in the Europe's recycling sector. Importantly, the empirical evidence from the quantiles-via-moments method aligns with the Driscoll-Kraay standard errors procedure. However, this research advocates for implementing effective regulatory measures to enhance recyclable material trade and advance the circular economy.

Suggested Citation

  • Islam, Md. Monirul & Mahmudul Alam, Md. & Sohag, Kazi, 2025. "Recycling through technology diffusion for circular economy in Europe: A decomposed assessment," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 214(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:214:y:2025:i:c:s0040162525000836
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2025.124052
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