Title: Circular economy in action: life cycle sustainability analysis of battery-operated three-wheelers in Bangladesh

Authors: Md. Nur Alam; Md. Noor Un Nabi; Fatema Tuj Zohora; Imtiaz Masroor

Addresses: Business Administration Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna – 9208, Bangladesh ' Business Administration Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna – 9208, Bangladesh ' Department of Marketing, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore – 7408, Bangladesh ' Human Resource Management Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna – 9208, Bangladesh

Abstract: The surge in global CO₂ emissions resulting from extensive fossil fuel consumption has heightened concerns about global warming. As a response, there has been a significant shift towards eco-friendly energy sources, focusing attention on battery-operated vehicles. Bangladesh has witnessed the emergence of the easy-bike, a battery-operated three-wheeler public transportation mode. However, the introduction of these vehicles has raised environmental and societal concerns due to inadequate recycling of certain components. This study evaluates the life cycle sustainability of the easy-bike through the lens of the triple-bottom-line (TBL) framework, to promote circular economic development. Data collected from drivers, owners, and manufacturers underwent TBL analysis, yielding valuable insights. The study highlights the importance of circularity for sustainable progress, advocating for a comprehensive life cycle perspective across all aspects of sustainability to ensure accurate and reliable outcomes.

Keywords: life cycle sustainability assessment; triple-bottom-line; TBL; circular economy; emerging economy; electric vehicle; Bangladesh.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEXPORTM.2024.138430

International Journal of Export Marketing, 2024 Vol.6 No.2, pp.120 - 142

Received: 05 Aug 2023
Accepted: 31 Oct 2023
Published online: 03 May 2024 *

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