Sustainability and new technologies: focus on the second-hand market

This thesis explores the intersection of sustainability and technology within the second-hand clothing market, emphasizing the need for innovative business models in response to environmental challenges. Chapter 1 introduces the pressing issues of climate change and ecological degradation, advocating for a shift from traditional linear economic models to circular economies that prioritize resource reuse and recycling. It also discusses the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) approach, which evaluates corporate performance through economic, social, and environmental lenses. Chapter 2 delves into digital transformation as a catalyst for sustainable practices, highlighting how technologies such as mobile communication, cloud computing, and big data analytics enhance operational efficiency and support the adoption of sustainable business models. Chapter 3 focuses on the emergence of six innovative business models—circular supply chains, recovery and recycling, product life extension, product-as-a-service, sharing economy, and recommerce. It particularly emphasizes recommerce as a significant opportunity for economic valorization and responsible consumption, driven by younger generations. Chapter 4 provides an in-depth analysis of the second-hand clothing market, examining consumer motivations, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, and the challenges faced by this sector, such as product quality and trust. The chapter highlights the role of technology in addressing these challenges and enhancing consumer confidence through transparency. The conclusion synthesizes the findings, reinforcing the idea that integrating sustainability and technology is not only essential for addressing environmental issues but also a strategic necessity for businesses aiming to thrive in an eco-conscious marketplace.