Towards more sustainable Global Value Chains: the supporting role of the Blockchain and Allied Technologies

Abstract

This thesis explores, through a literature review, the main current global sustainability issues and the ambiguous role played by Global Value Chains in the matter: are they 'agents of chaos' or are they potential 'agents of change'? Are they, most likely, both? To shed light on the topic, I start by introducing GVCs and how they historically evolved into the all pervasive version of today. I provide an overview on the state of the literature on GVCs and Sustainability and, particularly, on the geography of value distribution and sustainability-related decisions, which are generally taken by large and powerful corporations in developed countries and then forced up the chain to smaller suppliers in the economic South. Thus, I point out how the ESG performance of a value chain is largely dependent on the lead firms' policies and practices and, in turn, how the ability of participating firms and countries to upgrade can be significantly improved or hindered by matters of GVC governance. I proceed by identifying drivers, barriers, tools and control measures for successfully shaping and managing sustainable Global Value Chains, both at the micro and at the macro-level. Finally, I explore the potential role of Blockchain and Allied Technologies in supporting a sustainable development to the GVCs of tomorrow and the impacts that their adoption is likely to bring.