Application of Blockchain in Reverse Supply Chain

Publication Date

1-10-2026

Document Type

Contribution to a Book

Publication Title

International Series in Operations Research and Management Science

Volume

373

DOI

10.1007/978-3-032-01218-0_8

First Page

203

Last Page

229

Abstract

Reverse supply chains face various challenges such as incomplete end-of-life data, product untraceability, information asymmetry, and low perceived value of remanufactured products. Blockchain, as a promising new technology, can be used to store accurate and reliable information regarding manufacturers, suppliers, logistics, product life expectancy, reusability, and recycling. Data precision and completeness help manufacturers to reduce or avoid costly testing and time consuming reduces. Despite documented benefits and real-world examples of blockchain, limited research integrates blockchain with recycling strategies, advertising efforts, and information management in reverse supply chains. This chapter reviews these challenges and how blockchain help to address them. It specifically analyzes blockchain adoption under three recycling modes (the manufacturer collecting used products directly from customers, the manufacturer contracting a retailer for collection, and the manufacturer outsourcing the collection activities to a third-party recycler). Additionally, it explores interactions between blockchain adoption and advertising strategies, as well as information strategies.

Keywords

Blockchain, Information strategies, Recycling mode, Reverse supply chain

Department

Global Innovation and Leadership

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