Blockchain Waste Management: are Italian managers ready?

This study contributes to the investigation of blockchain technology applications for waste management. Blockchain has been recognized as a means of circular economy enabling the tracking and monitoring of waste until it is reused in new markets. Through blockchain, waste and product lifecycle data are shared on a digital database with the stakeholders. This research analyses the possible implementation of blockchain waste management in small villages which, according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals constitute the starting point for sustainable practices. The Italian case is studied as one of the top European countries in terms of the number of small municipalities which represent about 60% of the total. The TAM2 model has been applied to qualify the acceptance of blockchain technology among managers of the Public Utilities and private enterprises responsible for waste management in small municipalities in Italy. The results show how the offering of services based on blockchain technology is still partially unknown. There is a need for training not only for the managers to develop the necessary skills to benefit from the blockchain platforms but most importantly for the overall knowledge of the characteristics and the possibilities of new value creation in waste management services. The article contributes to theoretical studies on blockchain for public services and aims to offer a new background for the formulation of national policies for the management of this technology. Nonetheless, it offers a managerial contribution by analyzing data relating to the management of blockchain technology in the waste management sector.