Trust Dynamics in Industrial Symbiosis: A Systematic Literature Review, Conceptual Framework and Research Agenda

The linear economic model has led to resource depletion, environmental degradation, and waste accumulation. Industrial Symbiosis (IS) offers a solution by promoting resource-sharing, and repurposing industrial by-products, leading to reduced waste and resilient supply chains. IS aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, contributing significantly to sustainability. However, its implementation faces considerable barriers, particularly social challenges, with trust recognised as a crucial enabler and its absence a major obstacle to long-term success. Trust facilitates inter-firm coordination, networking, and knowledge exchange, yet studies highlight persistent trust deficiencies within IS networks. Trust, by nature, is inherently fragile and volatile, influenced by stakeholder engagement, business conditions, and external uncertainties. While trust may initially emerge in IS collaborations, it is not guaranteed to persist. Several IS partnerships have suffered due to trust issues, leading to inefficiencies and, in some cases, failure. This study argues that trust management must be a continuous process, not a one-time effort, requiring deliberate strategies to maintain and strengthen collaborations over time. This study examines mechanisms that foster and sustain trust in IS collaborations through a rigorous systematic literature review and thematic analysis. It explores key trust-building strategies, factors influencing trust dynamics, and the role of trust management in IS success. By integrating stakeholder and trust theories, this study provides theoretical insights and practical applications, offering a conceptual framework for managing trust in IS networks and enhancing collaboration resilience. A future research agenda is proposed to test the conceptual framework and propositions with empirical data.