Multinationals’ approach to the circular economy principles: an overview of the electronics sector and its sustainable efforts

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate how multinational companies (MNCs) are addressing sustainability issues in their operations and to what degree they adopt sustainable initiatives related to the circular economy (CE) principles. Method: We performed a systematic review of the initiatives of 43 MNCs, using their corporate sustainability reports. Our sample was selected based on the rankings of the largest multinationals in the computers and semiconductor industries in 2023, according to Fortune and Forbes magazines. Main Results: Considering the significant outputs regarding production, revenue, and waste generation in these industries, we expected that sustainability concerns such as climate change and carbon footprint reduction would appear in their agendas. Our analysis identified key initiatives aligned with CE principles, such as reuse, reduction, and recycling of materials, resources, and products, and compared the patterns observed in the sample. Relevance/Originality: Our findings are relevant to understanding MNCs’ strategy and how they deal with the pressure of enhancing resource use efficiently through the CE approach. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions: Identifying how MNCs from the same industry approach CE initiatives through a detailed analysis of their sustainability reports. Social/Managerial Contributions: Based on successful initiatives, proposing sustainable actions that other companies can explore.