Sustainable Production by Integrating Business Models of Manufacturing and Recycling Industries

Paper i proceeding, 2011

Future raw material shortage, high price levels and environmental regulations requires increased reuse of materials and components. This will substantially influence conditions for both manufacturing and recycling industries, which need to innovate their business models. Our hypothesis is that an integrated co-operation between organizations within these industries, employing symbiotic business models will increase the profitability and reduce the total environmental impact. Findings from interaction with manufacturing and recycling industries using a business model framework as baseline are presented. Results indicate that profit and decreased environmental effects can be achieved through symbiotic business models, but further development and implementation is needed.