A circular economy framework for the assessment of bio-based value chains

Abstract

Circular economy, the new trend to think, do, use, and produce, poses new challenges in redesigning the industrial Value Chains (VCs). Achieving sustainability is stimulating innovation in existing markets and imposing differentiations in value chains with pioneering processes and products. An essential requirement in the pursuit of solutions is the existence of an evaluation framework that fosters circularity right from the initial phases of process and product development. This article focuses on establishing the connection between circularity strategies and the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) in various domains, specifically in innovative material production, such as bio-plastic bottle closures, multifunctional rubber panels, and wood composite bearings, within alternative value chains. This methodological approach was verified in the framework of the European Union funded GREEN-LOOP project to demonstrate the feasibility of producing bio-based materials. A comprehensive analysis of the value chain mapping was carried out, accompanied by the evaluation of circular economy practices at each stage. The assessment established a roadmap to enhance the value chain from both technological and environmental perspectives, as illustrated in the Circular Value Chain Canvas. The results have shown that the implementation of the circularity concepts already in the design phase can effectively support the Circular Economy transition.