Digital accountability for circular economy: a case study of Alia Servizi Ambientali’s smart waste management

The aim of this paper is to examine how the integrated use of AI, GIS, IoT, and blockchain technologies can enable digital accountability frameworks that enhance transparency, operational efficiency, and circular economy outcomes in urban waste management. An interventionist case study of Alia Servizi Ambientali shows that combining sensor networks, spatial analytics, and blockchain notarisation transforms waste collection into a transparent, participatory service. The findings indicate that digital accountability can support operational improvements and social-impact objectives, while providing empirical insights into circular economy implementation in public–private service contexts.