Exploring the role of digital platforms in promoting value co-creation: evidence from the Italian municipal solid waste management system

Luigi Mersico, Selena Aureli and Eleonora Foschi

Sustainability Accounting, Management and Policy Journal, 2025, vol. 17, issue 1, 233-266

Abstract: PurposeThis study aims to explore how digital platforms (DPs) contribute to value co-creation in municipal solid waste (MSW) management systems.Design/methodology/approachThe present paper conducts an explorative analysis using single case study methodology. The case in question involves a DPs operating in Italy.FindingsEmpirical analysis shows that DPs help engage citizens in MSW and reduce the fragmentation in waste management systems by fulfilling a brokerage role that connects citizens, municipalities and waste management companies. The development of bidirectional knowledge and resource flow among actors contributes to better waste recycling processes, as well as fosters economic, environmental and social value co-creation in a complex public service.Research limitations/implicationsThis research is limited to a single case study within the Italian context, which may influence the generalizability of the findings. Future research could expand the scope to include multiple case studies across different geographical regions.Practical implicationsFor practitioners and policymakers, this paper underscores the strategic benefits of adopting DPs in MSW management systems and thereby improving public service delivery.Social implicationsThe case analysis highlights that DPs can assist public actors in achieving numerous sustainable development goals by enhancing recycling rates and activating learning mechanisms among citizens.Originality/valueThis study contributes to literature by connecting different fields of research (i.e. waste management and public management) and using network theory to show how DPs can contribute to the economic, environmental and social sustainability of MSW while generating relevant benefits for the actors involved.

Keywords: Digital platform; Waste management; Municipal solid waste; Public service; Broker; Value co-creation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:sampjp:sampj-03-2024-0317

DOI: 10.1108/SAMPJ-03-2024-0317

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