Orchestrating Sustainability: Government Platforms for Material Circulation

Public sector organizations increasingly use digital platforms to foster value co-creation among diverse stakeholders and to address complex societal challenges, such as those related to sustainable development. Different kinds of digital platforms have been recognized as potential drivers of the societal transition toward a circular economy. However, little is known about the organization, governance, and circular value outcomes of such platforms, especially those provided by public sector organizations. Following a case-study strategy, we explore how multisided digital government platforms can promote a circular economy as marketplaces for residual resources. We outline the advantages and limitations inherent in public sector organizations as platform orchestrators within circular economy ecosystems. By uncovering essential factors that influence the success of government platforms in enhancing sustainability goals, this study provides both novel theoretical insights and practical guidance for the implementation of similar initiatives.