Upcycling: a systematic review and research agenda

Abstract

Purpose Upcycling is a process of creatively reusing discarded objects, materials and waste, creating unique value. This study aims to synthesize the body of literature related to upcycling businesses by adopting a systematic literature review approach; derive a framework that explains how upcycling small and medium enterprise (SME) business models should work; and provide a research agenda to support future research on upcycling businesses. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a systematic literature review approach and reviewed 110 publications published from 2012 to 2024. Findings The findings reveal that from a consumer’s perspective, four factors influence consumers’ purchase intention and behavior – psychological and socio-demographic factors, eco-consciousness and perceived value, perceived risk and consumer upcycling. From a producer’s perspective, four factors impact the performance of upcycling businesses – research and collaborations, product design and development, upcycling as a business model, and managing growth. Originality/value The authors have developed a framework combining consumer and producer perspectives to explain how an upcycling SME business model should work. Further, this study has identified key areas for future research in upcycling as the upcycler paradox, upcycling business model innovation and upcycled product design. Aligning with these areas, a research agenda is given to inspire further studies in the upcycling domain.