| Title |
Reframing ESG as an innovation logic: a theoretical model for human-centred AI-mechatronic integration in circular food economies |
| Authors |
Cacciolatti, Luca ; Christofi, Michail ; Christodoulou, Ioannis ; Quỳnh, Lê Hoàng |
| DOI |
10.1080/0144929X.2026.2699279 |
| Full Text |
|
| Is Part of |
Behaviour and information technology.. Abingdon : Taylor and Francis Ltd.. 2026, first published online, p. [1-17].. ISSN 0144-929X. eISSN 1362-3001 |
| Keywords [eng] |
circular economy ; ESG ; food systems ; human-centred design ; innovation ; Institutional logics |
| Abstract [eng] |
This conceptual paper explores Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles as a transformative institutional logic capable of guiding AI and mechatronic innovation in circular food systems. Responding to calls for food systems transformation, we develop a theoretical framework that integrates institutional logics theory, human-centred design (HCD), and circular economy thinking. We conceptualise ESG as an emerging innovation logic that shapes how technologies are designed, legitimised and embedded within socio-technical systems. HCD is proposed as a mediating mechanism that translates ESG principles into socially legitimate and context-sensitive technological solutions. We further argue that the institutionalisation of ESG innovation logic is enabled through actor mobilisation, rhetorical framing, and governance infrastructures. The framework advances three propositions: first, that the centrality and compatibility of ESG logic within pluralistic innovation ecosystems promote sustainable and legitimate AI-mechatronic systems; second, that HCD translates ESG principles into ethically grounded design practices and third, that field-level governance mechanisms facilitate the institutionalisation of ESG-centred innovation in circular food systems. We discuss the theoretical implications for institutional logics research and offer practical insights for policymakers and designers seeking to align emerging technologies with circular economy objectives. Finally, we identify future research directions, including examining ESG logic evolution, HCD as an institutional logic and power asymmetries in logic translation. |
| Published |
Abingdon : Taylor and Francis Ltd |
| Type |
Journal article |
| Language |
English |
| Publication date |
2026 |
| CC license |
|
