Digital industrial symbiosis as a collaborative human system: Drivers and barriers of SME readiness in the European circular economy

Abstract

Industrial symbiosis (IS) and digital industrial symbiosis (DIS) are widely advocated as essential strategies for furthering circular economy (CE) goals within the European Union; yet empirical evidence about the preparedness of small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) to use these methods is still scarce. This study investigates the organizational, technological, and perceptual aspects influencing SMEs’ preparedness to adopt IS and DIS, emphasizing digital maturity, perceived benefits, barriers, and the institutional support conditions. A convergent mixed-methods methodology was employed, combining qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with SMEs and intermediary organizations, alongside quantitative data from a structured survey conducted across various European countries. The study examined the relationships between adoption readiness and digital maturity, perceived benefits, barriers, and institutional support conditions, while qualitative insights offered further contextual comprehension of trust, governance, and implementation conditions. The findings indicate that digital maturity and perceived benefits are the primary determinants of adoption readiness, but perceived barriers and institutional support predominantly influence implementation feasibility rather than initial willingness. This study differentiates between motivational readiness and structural feasibility, thereby enhancing adoption models and offering insights for policymakers, intermediaries, and practitioners involved in the design of digital industrial symbiosis platforms and SME support instruments.