Circularity in the pasta supply chain: Developing a multi-indicator framework for circular economy assessment

Abstract

The shift towards circular production patterns in the agri-food supply chain is becoming increasingly essential for sustainable development. In this scenario, measuring circularity is critical for ensuring an effective and efficient transition towards such development. Given its relevance, the scientific community and standard-setting bodies are progressively focusing on identifying appropriate circularity indicators. Accordingly, most existing studies have provided broad overviews of available indicators, systematically reviewing academic and grey literature in the context of the agri-food supply chain. Considering the peculiarities of each supply chain within this sector, it is crucial to identify specific indicators in line with their characteristics, providing a practical guide for companies committed to the circular transition. However, a significant gap in research focused on identifying specific indicators for different agri-food supply chain has emerged. To fill this gap, the present research aims to provide a comprehensive framework to measure circularity within the pasta supply chain, representing an essential sector of the worldwide economy. To achieve this, a structured approach was adopted that integrates a systematic literature review with an assessment of the available standards on circular economy measurement. By implementing a rigorous selection process, a final set of 51 indicators – reclassified according to the analytical framework developed in the study – was identified for each pasta supply chain phase. Results show that most indicators could be transversally applied to the PSC. This multi-indicator framework could represent a helpful tool for the pasta industry to measure, monitor and disclose circularity performance in line with the ISO 59020:2024 standard.