Challenges for operational and business management of rice straw extraction: An analysis based on CIMO-logic and system thinking process with experts

Purpose: This study examines the operational and business challenges associated with rice straw management, focusing on sustainable alternatives to traditional burning methods. The research identifies key barriers and potential solutions for effective rice straw utilization within the Valencian agricultural context by applying the CIMO-logic framework.Design/methodology/approach: The research utilizes a qualitative methodology based on system thinking and expert interviews to assess rice straw management’s operational and business dimensions. Interviews were conducted with stakeholders across the agri-food value chain, capturing diverse perspectives on the socio-technical, regulatory, and economic challenges of adopting sustainable rice straw practices.Findings: The study reveals several significant barriers, including technological constraints, regulatory challenges, and economic disincentives favouring traditional burning. However, provided financial and regulatory support is established, experts also identified promising opportunities for rice straw use, such as bioenergy production, bio-construction, and sustainable packaging.Research limitations/implications: The findings are contextual to the Albufera region, where environmental policies and agricultural practices may differ from those of other rice-producing areas. Further comparative studies in varied geographies would benefit from more comprehensive implementation.Practical implications: The research suggests that targeted economic incentives and advancements in lightweight, efficient machinery could make sustainable rice straw management economically viable for farmers, especially in regions with strict environmental regulations.Social implications: Sustainable rice straw management practices could improve air quality and public health, reduce social tensions from traditional burning, and promote rural employment by developing small industries based on straw-derived products.Originality/value: This study provides a novel application of CIMO-logic to agricultural waste management, offering insights into sustainable rice straw practices’ operational and business feasibility in a regulated European context.