A supply chain perspective of e-waste management: unraveling network dynamics

E-waste poses major environmental and economic challenges. Its management is increasingly influenced by new business models and emerging actors, including AI-powered platforms and recycling solutions. This paper uses multiple case studies to examine how these actors integrate into existing e-waste practices and networks. Using actor network theory (ANT), the study analyses their roles, collaborations, and the formation of broader networks to address e-waste issues. Five European cases (OC1, RF1, RF2, RF3, LN1) are examined to show how actors address systemic gaps and stabilise networks. The research highlights the role of nonhuman actors – EU directives and digital technologies – in shaping dynamics. It extends ANT by showing how new actors lead network formation and how nonhuman elements influence outcomes. The study contributes to circular economy literature by showing how gap exploiters drive innovation and collaboration, while also exposing ongoing policy and market challenges.