Smart technologies and environmental management. Exploratory research from Italy

The main purpose of this paper is to analyse the impact of smart technologies on environmental performance, trying to understand the differences between manufacturing and service companies. This research used an exploratory study based on semi-structured interview with 10 experts. It seems that several smart technologies have a relevant impact on environmental performance especially in the manufacturing sector. While for service industry the impact seems rather limited. Findings can be very useful for companies belonging to both manufacturing and service industry. Companies that are interested in implementing these smart technologies can now realise whether or not they could impact on environmental performance. Smart technologies have been studied particularly for the manufacturing industry. The literature lacks of applications dedicated to service industry and environmental performance.