Blockchain enabled sustainable packaging for carbon footprint reduction in the European footwear industry

The global footwear industry, a significant contributor to carbon emissions, is facing growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, with packaging often being an overlooked source of environmental impact. This study introduces a blockchain-based model for sustainable packaging that enhances traceability, consumer engagement, and carbon monitoring. The system links unique QR codes to smart contracts, enabling the transparent tracking of packaging lifecycles and the automation of incentives inspired by the German Pfand deposit-return system. Recovered packaging materials are reintegrated into production through a closed-loop process, reducing waste and supporting resource efficiency. Simulation results based on industry-validated parameters show that moderate deposits and bonuses can increase packaging return rates above 60%, with nearly 40% of packaging suitable for reuse and CO 2 savings of approximately 1.9 tonnes per 5000 units under the balanced incentive configuration, with simulation results ranging from about 1.2 to 2.6 tonnes depending on deposit and bonus levels. These results demonstrate how digital traceability and incentive-driven design can effectively close the intention–action gap in consumer behaviour. The study provides an evidence-based framework for integrating digital technologies into sustainable manufacturing, offering measurable environmental and operational benefits for the footwear industry. • Blockchain and QR enables auditable, circular packaging returns. • Smart contracts automate deposits/refunds and reward reusable returns. • Verifiable CO 2 accounting across the packaging life cycle. • Simulation quantifies return rates, reuse yield, and CO 2 savings. • Scalable, policy aligned design for EPR and EU circular economy goals.