Mapping circular economy product and material flows in healthcare: A visual taxonomy

Material flow analysis for five types of wet wipes and their contribution to microplastic emissions

Factors shaping end-of-life management of short-lived consumer goods: A comparison between plastic packaging and textiles.

This paper examines the conceptual, structural, and functional relationships between distribution logistics and supply logistics, two domains that are often perceived as synonymous despite their fundamentally different roles within the logistics chain. The study clarifies frequently used terms, defines their correct positioning within distribution and supply logistics, and analyses their interconnections in the context of material, information, and financial flows. Based on established scientific literature, professional standards, and practical project experience, the paper highlights the distinctions between distribution, physical distribution, physical supply, and distribution logistics as a system. It further explains the functions of distribution in value creation, harmonisation of supply and demand, and execution of essential operational activities, including transport, storage, regrouping, and customer service. The research emphasises the systemic integration of distribution and supply as inseparable parts of a single chain, driven by the potential difference between supply and demand. The paper also outlines the structural role of distribution channels, logistics channels, and acquisition and logistics distribution subsystems, illustrating how coordinated strategic and operational decisions influence the performance of the entire logistics system. By defining key terms and illustrating their relationships, the study contributes to a clearer conceptual framework for logistics professionals and supports more accurate use of logistics terminology in academic and practical environments. The proposed framework supports consistent terminology usage in logistics education, research, and practical system design.

NetLogo is widely used for agent-based simulation of transport and logistics because it is open, flexible, and fast to prototype. This review synthesizes peer-reviewed studies on NetLogo across four application streams: (a) Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and flow optimisation; (b) Public-transport operations and evacuation management; (c) Traffic-control, energy use, emissions analysis; and (d) Driver/vehicle behaviors and connected/autonomous vehicle modelling. We map how agent rules, interaction topologies, and calibration choices shape material, information, and human flows across networks and terminals, and how they inform transport operations, distribution logistics, and supply chain decisions. A thematic synthesis highlights five recurring gaps: (1) Oversimplified agent size/geometry; (2) Limited behavioral realism for drivers, passengers, and controllers; (3) Weak mesoscopic linking between macro demand and micro operations; (4) Short time horizons for dynamics of congestion and energy; and (5) Incomplete calibration-verification-validation. We propose a logistics-oriented research agenda: multi-scale coupling (macro–meso–micro), behavior learning with ML, real-time digital-twin use cases, standardized CV&V protocols, and energy-emissions co-metrics. The review clarifies where NetLogo adds value to transport logistics - rapid what-if testing of control policies, routing, and terminal operations - while outlining steps needed for rigorous, decision-grade models.

Urban water systems in developing cities face increasing pressure from rapid population growth, aging infrastructure, and climate variability. This study examines the resilience and resistance of domestic water consumption in the Jos Metropolitan Area (JMA), using the Material Flow Analysis (MFA) framework. Data were obtained through a household survey of 400 respondents, supported by supply records from the Plateau State Water Board. The findings reveal an average per capita consumption of 44.6 liters per day, an average household size of 5 persons, and an estimated 20% water loss due to leakages and inefficient distribution. The Resistance Index (0.80) indicates strong short-term stability, suggesting that households effectively cope with supply interruptions through storage and alternative sourcing. However, the Resilience Index (0.62) reflects moderate recovery and limited adaptive capacity, constrained by infrastructural decay, unequal access, and weak institutional coordination. The combined MFA and resilience assessment highlight a system that is robust yet inflexible able to endure short-term shocks but slow to recover sustainably. The study recommends infrastructure renewal, data-driven planning, and community-based adaptation to enhance long-term water resilience. Integrating MFA into local governance frameworks can strengthen monitoring, reduce losses, and promote sustainable urban water management in Jos and similar mid-sized African cities.

Abstract Perovskite‐based tandem photovoltaics are compelling because they surpass single‐junction efficiency limits and deliver higher energy yield per unit area, supporting progress toward lower levelized cost of electricity. However, efficiency alone does not establish technological sustainability, since additional layers, interfaces, and processing routes alter energy and material flows across the product life cycle. Life‐cycle assessment (LCA) provides a quantitative framework to evaluate environmental impacts, including greenhouse‐gas emissions, toxicity‐related indicators, and material criticality, under well‐defined functional units and system boundaries. Emerging evidence indicates that perovskite tandems can achieve favorable environmental performance relative to silicon modules when material intensity, manufacturing energy, durability, and circular options such as top‐cell renewal and end‐of‐life recovery are appropriately managed. This review first outlines the working principles, device configurations, and recent LCA findings for perovskite‐based tandems. It then presents LCA studies on circular strategies focused on recycling and materials recovery. Finally, it outlines research priorities in LCA and sustainability to support the environmentally responsible development of perovskite photovoltaic technology.

Purpose – This study compares logistics management practices of major Chinese and Thai e-commerce platforms by examining information, money, and material flows through the 7Rs logistics performance framework. Methodology – A qualitative approach was employed using semi-structured interviews with eight senior logistics managers from four e-commerce platforms. Thematic analysis and cross-country comparison were applied to evaluate logistics performance across information, money, and material flows using the 7Rs framework. Results – Findings reveal that Chinese platforms demonstrate superior logistics efficiency through advanced technology, integrated payment systems, and self-operated logistics networks, while Thai platforms rely heavily on third-party logistics and face challenges in information accuracy, reverse logistics, and infrastructure limitations. Implications – The study suggests strategic investment in digital technologies, localized logistics systems, and reverse-logistics optimization to enhance service quality and competitiveness of e-commerce platforms in emerging markets. Originality/Value – This research provides one of the first cross-national empirical comparisons of e-commerce logistics in China and Thailand using the 7Rs framework, offering practical insights for platform managers and policymakers.

Analysis of the effect of process parameters on material flow in friction stir welding using CFD

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Polystyrene Sheets (PS) are versatile thermoplastics that are likely to be used in engineering thermoplastics commonly employed in automotive interior components, consumer electronics housings, household and medical products, and lightweight packaging structures. ABS is durable and resistant to impact, while PS is stiff. The present study investigates the effect of different tool pin geometries and process parameters on the weld bead structure and mechanical properties of friction stir-welded (FSWed) dissimilar thermoplastics, ABS, and PS. Both tool pin profiles, namely Threaded cylindrical (TC) and threaded triangular (TT), were made with the same shoulder diameters (21 mm) and pin lengths (3.7 mm) and joint under varying process parameters, including traverse speeds (9, 18, 27 mm/min) and rotating speeds (800, 900, 1100 rpm) is used to join ABS & PS. With a maximum UTS of 24.5 MPa, Shore D hardness of 83.6, and elongation of 5% at 900 rpm and 18 mm/min, the TC tool continuously outperformed the TT tool. Because TT tools required less heat and churning, the weld appeared smoother but had lower mechanical strength (higher strength was found at 18.98 MPa at 900 rpm and 27 mm/min). The findings demonstrate that TC geometry offers better material flow and bonding, making it more suitable for thermoplastic joints with high strength.

This study investigates the quality of a concentrated quince fruit product. Given the widespread use of concentrated fruit products, particularly quince jelly, in various climatic zones, as well as their potential as a medicinal and dietary product, assessing product quality using mathematical methods, particularly graph theory, is of interest in processing technology. Quince fruits, with their rich chemical composition, stand out among other fruits with their pleasant aroma. These volatile components migrate into the finished product, even after the raw materials are processed. Quince jelly is obtained by concentrating the juice, resulting in the formation of a colloidal system. However, manufacturing the product using gel technology, or more accurately, sol-gel technology, is determined by the added ingredients and environmental parameters. The advantage of this technology is that the resulting product has a more homogeneous appearance and a pleasant taste. The viscosity of the resulting product varies little across grades, averaging 2.17∙104 mPa∙s, and its Valent strength is 400. In terms of material flows, the consumption per ton of finished product was 1,328 kg. The structure of fruit jelly is formed by the addition of gelling agents to the juice. Therefore, this product is not considered the result of a strict sol-gel processing method, where the transition from sol to gel structure occurs through chemical reactions. In fruit jelly, the ingredients themselves create a three-dimensional network structure, but not a solid crystalline one. This network structure is formed by hydrolysis of pectin substances and the polycondensation of polygalacturonic acids, resulting in the formation of salt bridges.

The article presents the results of the analysis of the movement of fish and fish products between federal districts, with the exception of canned fish, within the framework of a modified gravity model. The aim of the wor k is to improve the methodology for managing the fisheries complex of Russia, especially when making decisions that take into account the spatial organization of the complex. The initial data were the data on interregional trade in fish and processed fish products (except canned goods) for 2024, published on the Bl portal. The choice of the gravity model as a tool for studying commodity flows, observing both individual and geographical factors, is justified. The results of the analysis show that traditional determinants of consumer and foreign trade activity are characterized by a high explanatory function in modeling domestic transportation of fish products by rail.

Management of ecological functional zoning for land use along China's Pinglu Canal under ecological supply-demand balance and threshold regulation.

This study aims to analyze the influence of green accounting and material flow cost accounting (MFCA) on corporate sustainability with good corporate governance (GCG) as a moderating variable. The research population includes 43 textile and garment manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, Malaysia Stock Exchange, and Singapore Exchange from 2021 to 2023. The research method employs panel data regression analysis with a fixed effect model approach. The results indicate that green accounting does not significantly affect corporate sustainability. MFCA in production flow shows a significant negative effect, while MFCA in production costs and production output show no significant effects. GCG strengthens the effect of MFCA production output on sustainability, but weakens the effect of MFCA production flow, and does not moderate the relationship between green accounting and sustainability. These findings indicate that the implementation of environmental accounting has not been optimal in supporting corporate sustainability, and the role of corporate governance varies depending on the dimensions of environmental accounting practices implemented.

Gallium plays a critical role in high-tech industries but faces supply risks. Improving the efficiency of recycling and utilization of secondary resources has become the most reasonable approach to addressing this. This study employs historical material flow analysis (2000–2019) to evaluate global and regional gallium recycling potential. The results indicate that gallium recycling remains underdeveloped, with three key opportunities identified: recycling gallium from primary production, new scraps, and old scraps. During 2000–2019, the cumulative amounts available from these sources were 239,760 tons, 3464 tons, and 955 tons, respectively, yet their recovery rates remain as low as 1.74%, 27.28%, and 0.84%, respectively. Regional analysis shows that the recycling potential and opportunities of gallium varies significantly across China, America, the EU, Japan, and the rest of the world. Current recycling technologies have shown potential for efficiently recovering gallium, but their economic viability relies on economies of scale and policy incentives.

Digital printing studios have been growing at a rapid pace, which has resulted in a pressing demand of smart, automated and scalable management tools that can support high volume manufacturing, various materials and multiple design types and deliver within strict deadlines. Conventional studio processes, including job intake, color correction, resource allocation and quality check are in most cases manualized, fragmented and liable to inefficiencies that lower productivity and consistency. In this paper, the author suggests a unified AI-based management system of digital printing studio, based on the application of machine learning, computer vision, and predictive analytics to improve workflow automation, operational intelligence, and human-machine interaction. The system architecture has real-time data acquisition, automated job logging, print pipeline monitoring, and dynamic scheduling algorithms as part of it to optimize machine use and material flow. AI-based tools assist in pre-press optimization, color correction, layout optimization, prediction of queue and minimization of material, hence optimizing throughput and minimizing wastage. Moreover, to provide operational transparency and skill improvement, the design interface, training recommendations, and human-in-the-loop decision verification powered by AI are included in the framework.

This review examines how the integration of circular bioeconomy principles with digital technologies can drive climate change mitigation, improve resource efficiency, and facilitate sustainable biorefinery development. This highlights the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels and introduces the bio-circular economy as a regenerative model focused on biomass valorization, reuse, recycling, and biodegradability. This study compares linear, circular, and bio-circular approaches and analyzes key policy frameworks in Europe, Latin America, and Asia linked to several UN Sustainable Development Goals. A central focus is the role of digitalization, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain. Examples include AI-based biomass yield prediction and biorefinery optimization, IoT-enabled real-time monitoring of material and energy flows, and blockchain technology for supply chain traceability and transparency. Applications in agricultural waste valorization, bioplastics, bioenergy, and nutraceutical extraction are also discussed in this review. Sustainability tools, such as automated life-cycle assessment (LCA) and Industry 4.0 integration, are outlined. Finally, future perspectives emphasize autonomous smart biorefineries, biotechnology–nanotechnology convergence, and international collaboration supported by open data platforms.

The global textile industry faces a critical inflexion point as circular economy mandates intensify and waste volumes soar beyond 100 million tonnes annually. Central to realising circularity is the efficiency and fidelity of textile waste sorting, a longstanding bottleneck dominated by manual, low-throughput, and error-prone methods. This paper investigates the deployment of an AI-enabled robotic sorting system integrating hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and deep learning algorithms within the context of India’s fragmented textile recycling ecosystem. We demonstrate that spectral imaging combined with convolutional neural networks (CNNs) achieves over 95% classification accuracy across heterogeneous, post-consumer Indian textile waste streams, including multi-fibre blends that typically confound manual sorters. Drawing from industrial benchmarks such as Sweden’s SipTex and U.S.-based Refiberd, we design a prototype that integrates conveyor automation, real-time classification, and robotic actuation. Comparative analysis reveals that the AI system achieves throughput rates exceeding 1,000 garments per hour, representing a 20× gain over manual processes while reducing misclassification rates by more than 60%. A techno-economic model suggests payback periods under four years when scaled to medium-sized facilities, with significant reductions in labour dependency and waste-to-landfill ratios. Our findings have strong implications for policy and industry: AI sorting systems not only align with India’s National Textile Policy and MITRA initiatives but also represent an enabling infrastructure for chemical recycling, extended producer responsibility, and traceable material flows. By bridging technological innovation with operational scalability, this study advances the industrial feasibility of circular textiles in the Global South.

This study assesses the environmental implications of reusing used electrical and electronic equipment (UEEE) in Slovenia. Reuse operations at four centres Ponovne Uporabe were analysed by integrating material flow analysis with a simplified life cycle assessment approach. Four scenarios were evaluated: S1 (optimistic reuse), S2 (conservative reuse), S3 (no reuse), and S4 (full reuse), each varying in allocation of materials to reuse, recycling, and incineration, as well as in the assumed reuse effectiveness. The results show that S4 (full reuse) achieved the highest emissions reduction of 7.87 kg CO2-eq per kg of material input, highlighting the substantial environmental benefits of reuse over recycling. Optimistic reuse (S1), which assumes full substitution, also yields significant environmental benefits of 7.82 kg CO2-eq per kg of material input. In contrast, S3 (the no-reuse scenario), in which materials are diverted mainly to recycling, results in an emission reduction of 5.2 kg CO2-eq per kg of material input. S2 (conservative reuse), applying a conservative reuse factor, shows the lowest emission avoided at 4.1 kg CO2-eq per kg of material input. Although based in Slovenia, this study offers transferable insights for countries aiming to scale reuse systems. The results highlight that maximizing environmental benefits within the circular economy model requires system supports, including design for reuse, durability, reparability, effective preparation for reuse operations, supportive policy frameworks and adequate financial and infrastructural capacity.

The growing pressure to achieve carbon neutrality has exposed major limitations in current industrial processes, which often operate in isolation, rely on simplified mass-balance assumptions, and struggle to manage increasingly complex material and energy flows. Traditional industrial symbiosis and circular economy strategies have improved resource efficiency, yet they rarely capture molecular-level interactions or enable coordinated optimization across multiple facilities, restricting their ability to support large-scale decarbonization. In this context, Carbon–Hydrogen–Oxygen Symbiosis Networks (CHOSYNs) have emerged as an advanced framework that integrates atomic-level targeting with multi-scale process systems engineering to identify synergies, valorization pathways, and cross-sector exchanges that conventional approaches overlook. This review consolidates the theoretical foundations, historical development, and recent applications of CHOSYNs, illustrating how it can enhance efficiency, reduce emissions, and strengthen resilience in energy systems, chemical industries, and circular resource management. Although the literature remains limited, existing studies demonstrate the promise of CHOSYNs as a unifying methodology for designing low-carbon industrial ecosystems. Key challenges related to scalability, validation, governance, and operational robustness are examined, and a roadmap is proposed to guide the evolution and practical deployment of CHOSYNs toward 2035.