Circular Economy in Agri-Food Systems | #sciencefather #researchawards #phenomenology #AIForSustainability #DigitalTransformation

Advancing Circular Agri-Food Supply Chains: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis of Stakeholder Roles and Sustainability Dimensions

1. Introduction to Circular Agri-Food Supply Chains (CASCs)

Circular Agri-Food Supply Chains (CASCs) are an emerging model in sustainable agriculture that integrate circular economy principles into traditional food systems. Unlike linear supply chains that follow a “take-make-dispose” model, CASCs emphasize reducing food loss, reusing materials, recycling nutrients, and valorizing waste into new resources such as bioenergy or animal feed.


2. Methodological Approaches in CASC Research

The literature shows that CASC research is grounded in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including:

  • Bibliometric analysis for trend mapping

  • Content analysis to assess case studies and stakeholder roles

  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate environmental impact

  • Optimization models for operational improvements

Key finding: Traditional optimization techniques dominate, but there is limited real-world testing and integration of modern technologies like AI or IoT.

3. Stakeholder Involvement and Collaboration

Stakeholders in CASCs include farmers, processors, consumers, policymakers, NGOs, and technology providers. Their collaboration is essential to align supply chain practices with sustainability goals.

Subtopics:

  • Roles of public vs. private stakeholders

  • Community engagement for food recovery

  • Policy impact on adoption of circular models

Challenges:

  • Lack of incentives

  • Fragmented supply chains

  • Social resistance to waste reuse

4. Technological Integration in CASCs

Although digital technologies are rapidly transforming other supply chains, their adoption in CASCs is still limited. The integration of technologies such as:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) for demand forecasting

  • Blockchain for traceability

  • IoT sensors for monitoring perishables

  • Machine Learning (ML) for predictive logistics

…has the potential to revolutionize CASC implementation.

Gap: Limited real-world applications and pilot programs in agri-food CASCs using advanced tech.

5. Economic and Environmental Sustainability

Circular models help reduce economic losses by converting waste into value-added products. Environmental benefits include lower emissions, less land use, and better water efficiency.

Examples:

  • Using agricultural waste for bioplastics

  • Feeding by-products to livestock

  • Composting organic food waste

Metrics used:

  • Greenhouse gas reduction

  • Cost-benefit analysis

  • Material recovery rates

6. The Underexplored Social Dimension

While environmental and economic impacts are well-researched, the social sustainability of CASCs is underrepresented. Key themes include:

  • Equity and inclusion in food systems

  • Labor practices in reverse logistics

  • Consumer education and awareness

Future Direction: Develop social impact assessment frameworks for CASC projects.

7. Global Trends and Regional Perspectives

  • Developed countries (e.g., Italy, UK, France): Leading research and policy implementation.

  • Developing countries (e.g., India, Brazil, China): Focused on farmer empowerment and resource efficiency.

Insight: International collaboration and knowledge transfer can support global CASC expansion.

8. Policy and Business Implications

To encourage the transition to CASCs:

  • Governments must offer regulatory support and financial incentives.

  • Businesses should adopt circular strategies such as localized sourcing and waste valorization.

  • Consumers need to be involved through awareness and incentive programs.

9. Conclusion and Future Directions

The review highlights the need to:

  • Embrace interdisciplinary and real-world tested optimization models

  • Strengthen the social pillar in CASC research

  • Integrate digital technologies more deeply

  • Foster collaborative governance among stakeholders

#SystematicReview #BibliometricAnalysis #LifeCycleAssessment #OptimizationModels #ContentAnalysis #AgriTech #AIForSustainability #DigitalTransformation #SmartFarming  #SupplyChainInnovation

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