Not logged in.

Contribution Details

Type Working Paper
Scope Discipline-based scholarship
Title Blockchain-enabled Sustainability
Organization Unit
Authors
  • Thomas Puschmann
  • Sayaka Shiba
Language
  • English
Institution University of Zurich
Series Name University of Zurich
Number 2
Date 2020
Abstract Text Blockchain has emerged as a novel technology since the introduction of Bitcoin in 2008. While research in this field has developed in various fields, the connection between blockchain and sustainability remains largely unexplored. This paper analyses the existing literature and start-up landscape at the intersection of blockchain and sustainability and develops an agenda for future research. First, the literature is used to develop a framework (building blocks) for sustainability related blockchain concepts. Based on this framework existing start-ups in this field are analyzed in more detail to understand their current focus. The analysis reveals that primarily the energy sector and the financial services industry are currently working on approaches for including sustainability models based on blockchain. However, the underlying business models are mostly concentrated on improving operational efficiency rather than focusing on customer intimacy or product leadership. Finally, the majority of approaches contributes to the sustainable development goals 7 (reduced inequalities), 9 (build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), 12 (responsible consumption and production), 13 (climate action) 15 (life on land), and 17 (partnerships) while other SDGs have been less relevant until now.
Export BibTeX
EP3 XML (ZORA)