Artificial intelligence and circular supply chains: framework for applications and deployment from the triple bottom line model perspective

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to automate processes in the manufacturing and supply chain domains, thereby assisting in the attainment of the three pillars of circular economy, namely, recycle, reuse, and reduce. Furthermore, implementing transparent and responsible AI is foundational to achieving sustainable and ethical Circular Supply Chains (CSC). This research explores how AI transparency and responsibility mechanisms are critical enablers for aligning technological advancement with sustainable practices in CSC operations. Furthermore, technologies such as Digital Twins, Industrial Internet of Things, and Blockchain provide frameworks for cyber-physical systems that create smart or intelligent factories and contribute to CSC. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, it became crucial for businesses to begin focusing on Society 5.0, which resulted in the development and deployment of strategies based on the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework, wherein profit is achieved by keeping people and the environment in mind. Through the lens of the TBL framework, this study compiles and organizes AI in CSC research by identifying the enablers of AI as predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, society 5.0, sustainable development, and cyber-physical systems and barriers like privacy, transparency, etc. We believe that the benefits of AI technology will outweigh its initial costs. Implications for the future and enablers and barriers under the themes of AI in CSC are also discussed.