Supplier Selection Framework in Circular Supply Chains: Combining BWM, AHP Ratings, and Risk Analysis

Selecting suppliers for circular supply chains is an important requirement, demanding evaluation frameworks that capture reuse, reverse flows, and waste minimization beyond traditional metrics. This paper introduces a structured model designed to assess suppliers against specific circularity-oriented criteria. The Best-Worst Method (BWM) derives criteria weights, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) ratings evaluate alternatives, and a risk assessment stage consolidates the final ranking. The primary insights of this research include: (i) the development of a structured supplier evaluation model that encompasses dimensions like closed-loop integration, end-of-life management, material efficiency, and waste management into a multi-criteria perspective; (ii) applying BWM to derive consistent criteria weights, clarifying how circular performance attributes shape supplier prioritization; (iii) applying AHP ratings and risk assessment to consolidate the evaluation into a final ranking of alternatives; and (iv) demonstrating the operational feasibility and applicability of the framework through a real-world case analysis, providing empirical evidence for assessing circular supplier performance in industrial environments.