Enhancing environmental sustainability in a Circular Waste Bioeconomy: A hierarchical framework driven by operational efficiency and agro-energy management

The increasing generation of agro-waste poses environmental and economic challenges. Traditional farming practices often neglect the potential for agro-waste valorization, leading to inefficient disposal and resource wastage. This study addresses the lack of hierarchical models to guide the implementation of Circular Waste Bioeconomy (CWBE) by developing such a model and identifying key driving aspects and practical criteria. A mixed method combining the fuzzy Delphi method and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory is adopted for attribute validity and the analysis of cause-and-effect interrelationships. The results reveal that operational efficiency and agro-energy management are crucial drivers for enhancing environmental sustainability, cascading use, and developing bio-based markets. Key criteria for CWBE implementation in Colombia include life cycle assessment, biomass technology adoption, waste flow mapping, incentivizing stewardship behavior, bioenergy adoption, and value optimization. This study contributes to the CWBE literature by providing a hierarchical framework and actionable insights to guide policymakers and practitioners in promoting sustainable agro-waste management.