Circular Economy Models for Reducing Food Waste and Enhancing Sustainability: A Case Study of Cooperative X

This study examines the potential of the circular economy (CE) as a strategic approach to reducing food waste (FW) and promoting sustainability, using Cooperative X as a case study. Cooperative X (anonymized by the organization to facilitate the study) is a non-profit organization that establishes with the objective of reducing the amount of agricultural produce that is not able to meet the appearance standards for retail sales. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating semi-structured interviews with producers and questionnaires administered to consumers. Quantitative findings indicate a significant positive correlation between the cooperative’s business model and FW reduction, as well as its broader impact on sustainability. The environmental pillar is the most influential factor shaping the business model. Qualitative insights reveal that producers acknowledge CE principles as enablers of sustainable practices, while consumers exhibit increasing awareness of FW issues. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the model adopted by Cooperative X can be replicated in other regional and global contexts, particularly in emerging economies and sustainable agricultural systems. The adaptability of this approach allows for its implementation in diverse socio-economic settings, fostering synergies between local producers, consumers, and public policies. This study underscores the effectiveness of CE-based models in advancing sustainable economic systems and provides practical insights for organizations and policymakers seeking to integrate circular practices into their operations.