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Abstract
Lithium-ion battery (LIB) circular supply chains (CSCs) present unique safety challenges among operation processes. Blockchain technology can be a promising solution for addressing these challenges, by enabling effective tracking and verification of safety-related information throughout the supply chain. However, how blockchain can mitigate safety issues from a supply chain perspective is poorly understood. This study proposes a theory-supported framework through intervention-based research (IBR) to provide guidance for LIB CSC safety management. The conceptual framework and theoretical propositions set the foundation for research on a comprehensive blockchain ecosystem specifically designed for CSC safety management. The framework includes the design of a blockchain architecture with capabilities tailored to address safety concerns, the involvement of multiple stakeholders, and the development of a safety measurement matrix. This study suggests research and practical directions which lay the groundwork for leveraging blockchain technology to improve safety management in LIB CSC. This research contributes to sustainable supply chains by proposing a conceptual framework for mitigating safety concerns in LIB CSC, paving the way for effective blockchain implementation. In addition, this study contributes to advancing the theoretical design understanding and application of blockchain technology in CSC safety management.
Sustainable Development Goals:
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Data availability statement
The data that support the findings of this study are available from the authors, [AY, CZ], upon reasonable request.
Notes
1 Establishment Specific Injury and Illness Data (Injury Tracking Application) | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov).
2 Tools, Apps and Databases | UL Solutions.
3 Layer 2 (L2) blockchain is a scaling solution that operates on top of Layer 1 (L1) blockchains like Ethereum or Bitcoin. L1 blockchains handle primary transactions and ensure security but can suffer from congestion and high fees. L2 solutions process transactions off the L1 blockchain, reducing fees and improving scalability while maintaining security through L1 settlement.
Additional information
Funding
Notes on contributors
Zhuowen Chen
Zhuowen Chen is a PhD candidate at the School of Business of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, specialising in circular economy, operations and supply chain management, sustainability, and blockchain. Her research explores the intricate intersections of safety and environmental factors within these domains, with a specific emphasis on the framework of a circular economy. Employing advanced modelling techniques and strategic decision-making, her work addresses the dynamic nature of these systems. Zhuowen has contributed to publications including Resource Conservation and Recycling, Global Challenge, and Green Chemistry. She earned her M.S. degree in finance from the Miami Herbert Business School in 2020. For further inquiries, please contact her at [email protected].
Joseph Sarkis
Joseph Sarkis is a Professor of Management with the School of Business at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. His research and teaching interests are in the fields of operations and supply chain management, the natural environment, and technology. He has many publications in several outlets. He has been recognised as a highly cited researcher for several years by Clarivate/Web-of-Science. His most recently published book is an edited major reference work on supply chain management published by Palgrave-MacMillan.
Abdullah Yildizbasi
Abdullah Yildizbasi is an Assistant Teaching Professor in Operations and Industrial Engineering Department at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, USA. He received his master’s in engineering management from Syracuse University and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from Eskisehir Osmangazi University. He has published more than 25 top ranked journal articles and 50 conference papers. His research interests include operations research, closed-loop supply chain, blockchain & big data research, green supply chain management, sustainability and circular economy. His academic studies have been cited about 500 times in SCI journals.