An integrated decision-making framework for evaluating Industry 5.0 and Circular Economy in supply chain management using Z-numbers

Due to competitive pressures and awareness of environmental issues, companies focus on improving resilience and sustainability in the Supply Chain (SC). Industry 5.0 (I5.0) and artificial intelligence are two examples of new technologies that can improve SCs' resilience, efficiency, and transparency. Additionally, the Circular Economy (CE) supports sustainability by promoting reuse, recycling, and reduction of waste and resource consumption. This research proposes integrating I5.0 and CE in SC to achieve sustainability. A decision approach using Z-numbers is developed to evaluate the solutions. A novel integrated framework including the Simplified Best-Worst Method (SBWM), and Combined Compromise Solution (CoCoSo) approaches, is extended using Z-numbers to evaluate the implementation solutions of I5.0 and CE in SC. This approach offers flexible answers and reliable findings based on different decision-making situations. Also, comparative analysis based on different techniques and sensitivity analysis are investigated. Paying attention to appropriate investment cost, suitable investment risk, and green factors and the growth of environmentally affable procedures were the most significant sub-criteria with the significance of 0.232, 0.150, and 0.139, respectively. The results indicated that the solutions for developing digital infrastructure and suitable information systems, providing financial resources and development and attraction of investment, and creating the information system for tracking products in the circular SC are the most appropriate implementation solutions in the Z-CoCoSo method with scores of 4.703, 4.335, and 3.864, respectively. The findings of comparative analysis and examination of various scenarios also confirmed the priority of the solutions. Digital infrastructure and information systems enhance coordination and speed in SCs. Investing in advanced technologies, upgrading equipment, and attracting investors can mitigate financial risks. Additionally, using product tracking systems boosts transparency, supports sustainability, and ensures compliance with environmental regulations.