Technological innovations and obsolescence: Leveling the playing field
for remanufacturing
- Pedro H. Albuquerque ,
- Kiara Winans
Pedro H. Albuquerque
Aix-Marseille Université and ACCELERATION & ADAPTATION, Aix-Marseille Université and ACCELERATION & ADAPTATION
Corresponding Author:[email protected]
Author ProfileAbstract
In a linear economy, manufacturing is less costly and more profitable
than remanufacturing because of reduced private costs of utilization and
production. However, manufacturing also involves higher resource
extraction and waste as externalized costs than remanufacturing. We use
a vintage capital framework to assess technological innovations in
remanufacturing and their potential benefits to society and human
occupations. Our study shows that replacing manufacturing with
remanufacturing technologies creates positive static and dynamic
circular economy externalities. These externalities can be quantified to
assess improvements in social outcomes. A smartphone remanufacturing
innovation case study is presented as an illustration of the article's
main ideas. Future research should investigate additional specific cases
to develop a comprehensive methodology for assessing the impact of
remanufacturing innovations on social outcomes. This will provide
valuable insights into the broader implications of remanufacturing
practices.