Circular Economy in the Food Industry 4.0: Practices, Barriers and Benefits

Marina Badiale Silveira (), Paula de Camargo Fiorini (), Fabiano Armellini () and Daniel Jugend ()
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Marina Badiale Silveira: Sao Paulo State University (UNESP)
Paula de Camargo Fiorini: Sao Paulo State University (UNESP)
Fabiano Armellini: Polytechnique Montréal
Daniel Jugend: Sao Paulo State University (UNESP)

A chapter in Technology Management for Intelligent, Open and Responsible Organizations and Ecosystems, 2026, pp 132-137 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The transition to a Circular Economy (CE) and the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies are key strategies to mitigate environmental impacts, enhance resource efficiency, and support sustainable business models. This study examines the transition of the food industry toward CE by analyzing four case studies of companies in Brazil and Canada. Through semi-structured interviews with sustainability and operations managers, key CE practices, benefits, and challenges were identified. Findings highlight that companies implement resource reuse, waste reduction, and sustainable product design as part of their circular strategies. However, barriers such as cultural resistance and high costs hinder broader adoption. The integration of I4.0 technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Analytics, and the Internet of Things, was found to improve operational efficiency and waste reduction, though the need for skilled personnel remains a challenge. This research provides empirical insights into the convergence of CE and I4.0 in the food sector, offering practical implications for businesses and policymakers. Future research should explore CE adoption in other industries and deepen the role of digital technologies in circular transitions.

Keywords: Digital technology; Sustainability; Circular supply chain; Case studies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:prbchp:978-3-032-23282-3_17

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-23282-3_17

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