Study on the Relationship Between Actor-Network and Sustainable Manufacturing: The Case of IKEA

Abstract

This thesis explores the application of Actor-Network Theory (ANT) in the realm of sustainable manufacturing, employing IKEA as a case study. The study systematically investigates the multifaceted interactions among diverse actors within the sustainable manufacturing network. The research is structured around key themes such as government bodies, suppliers, consumers, and technology providers, offering a detailed analysis of stakeholder interests, needs, and the alignment thereof. Problematization within the study involves a deep exploration of the intricate dynamics arising at the intersection of ANT and Sustainable Manufacturing. The analysis unveils the central role of stakeholder alignment in shaping the sustainable manufacturing landscape. The thesis reveals that when stakeholder interests converge, translation processes facilitate collaboration, enabling the network to harness collective agency in advancing sustainability goals. However, it also recognizes the complexities arising from misaligned interests and power dynamics, acknowledging conflicts inherent in sustainable manufacturing networks. The Mobilization and Activation phase delves into the strategies employed to summon various actors, including IKEA, government bodies, suppliers, consumers, and technology providers, into action. This multifaceted endeavor highlights the importance of understanding the mechanisms that harness the potential of each actor within the network. The study emphasizes the pivotal roles of government policies, industrial practices, societal influences, and smart technologies in the success of sustainable manufacturing at IKEA. The stakeholder analysis uncovers the complex web of rights, demands, and challenges faced by each group, ranging from IKEA's balancing act between economic sustainability and ethical production.