The "dark side" of Industry 4.0: How to make technology more sustainable?

Purpose: Recent literature has highlighted several positive impacts of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies on sustainability performance. In contrast, empirical research analysing the negative effects on environmental and social sustainability is still scarce and anecdotal. The goals of this study are: (1) to identify the possible negative impacts of I4.0 technologies on sustainability; (2) to highlight the underlying motivations and mechanisms; and (3) to identify actions to mitigate such impacts. Design/methodology/approach: In line with the exploratory, interdisciplinary, and forward-looking nature of the research, the authors carried out a Delphi expert study. 43 experts from academia and practice with heterogeneous professional backgrounds, experiences and nationalities were selected. Two rounds of data collection were performed, until convergence or stability of the answers was reached. Findings: The results show that there is a “dark side” of I4.0, highlighting various negative effects on environmental and social aspects. Moreover, the findings suggest various corrective actions at firm, supply chain and policy levels to mitigate such effects. Originality: This study is one of the few to systematically investigate the negative impact of I4.0 technologies on sustainability performance, providing a rigorous overview and a clear vision of the future while presenting possible solutions. Practical implications: The qualitative evidence provided can be relevant for managers to anticipate possible sustainability issues in I4.0 technologies implementation. In addition, the policy interventions highlighted might be applicable at national and international levels to mitigate the sustainability issues.