A problematiques approach for understanding circular economy integration barriers in the mining and mineral processing sector

This study proposes a novel problematiques framework to analyze the structural complexity of circular economy (CE) implementation barriers in the mining and mineral processing sector. Using the PESTLE framework, barriers are identified and categorized according to key political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental components of the system. The research employs a hybrid problem structuring methodology integrating Z-number theory to handle uncertainty, DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) for causal relationship mapping, ISM (Interpretive Structural Modeling) for hierarchical structuring, and MICMAC analysis for hierarchical digraph representation and barrier classification. The proposed approach quantifies interdependencies among barriers while accounting for decision-maker expertise reliability through Z-number implementation. Such analysis reveals, for example, critical driving barriers, including insufficient government support and regulatory obstacles, significantly influencing other barriers in the system. The methodology generates a hierarchical structural model depicting identified barriers' relationships and relative influence, providing decision-makers with strategic insights for targeted interventions. This research thus offers a holistic framework for understanding CE implementation challenges in the mining and mineral processing sectors while accounting for uncertainty and complexity in barrier interactions. The findings support evidence-based policy development and strategic planning for CE transition in the sector, highlighting the need for integrated approaches addressing interconnected barriers simultaneously.