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Assessing circularity and sustainability of a value chain: A systematic literature review

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Listed:
  • Rosa Esteban‐Amaro
  • Sofia Estelles‐Miguel
  • Ismael Lengua
  • Bernard Yannou
  • Ghada Bouillass

Abstract

Value chains have become increasingly complex, complicating the transition to a circular economy and the pursuit of sustainable development. This transition requires assessing economic, environmental, social, and governance dimensions. We conduct a systematic literature review to evaluate whether existing methodologies can effectively assess the circularity and sustainability of value chains according to these four critical dimensions. Our work identifies three critical aspects to improve value chain evaluation: (i) circular economy requires assessment of the entire value chains, (ii) lack of stakeholder integration hinders sustainable development, and (iii) the need for multilevel and multidimensional performance assessment results in complex and incomplete methodologies. These findings imply that restructuring value creation models and value chain networks is essential to facilitate the application of simplified methodologies, thereby promoting the widespread adoption of circularity and sustainability. Addressing these gaps would the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and benefit society in the long run.

Suggested Citation

  • Rosa Esteban‐Amaro & Sofia Estelles‐Miguel & Ismael Lengua & Bernard Yannou & Ghada Bouillass, 2025. "Assessing circularity and sustainability of a value chain: A systematic literature review," Business Strategy and the Environment, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 34(1), pages 634-647, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:bstrat:v:34:y:2025:i:1:p:634-647
    DOI: 10.1002/bse.4009
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Monastyrnaya, Elena & Le Bris, Gwenola Yannou & Yannou, Bernard & Petit, Gaelle, . "A template for sustainable food value chains," International Food and Agribusiness Management Review, International Food and Agribusiness Management Association, vol. 20(4).
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    3. Monastyrnaya Elena & Gwenola Yannou-Le Bris & Bernard Yannou & Gaelle Petit, 2017. "A template for sustainable food value chains," Post-Print hal-01536402, HAL.
    4. Chowdhury, Naimur Rahman & Paul, Sanjoy Kumar & Sarker, Tapan & Shi, Yangyan, 2023. "Implementing smart waste management system for a sustainable circular economy in the textile industry," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 262(C).
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    6. Carlos Scheel & Bernardo Bello, 2022. "Transforming Linear Production Chains into Circular Value Extended Systems," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-17, March.
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