Exploring the drivers for eliminating food loss and waste in circular agri-food supply chains: a pathway to SDGs perspective

Purpose Efforts to reduce food loss and waste (FLW) in circular agri-food supply chains (AFSCs) are essential for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aims to conduct a systematic review to identify the key sustainability-related circular economy (CE) drivers supporting FLW prevention in fresh fruit and vegetable supply chains (FVSCs) in a developing country and to examine their impact on food-related SDGs. Design/methodology/approach The study uses the Picture Fuzzy CODAS (PF-CODAS) methodology to evaluate the significance of these drivers and rank the food-related SDGs. Findings This study identified regulatory, behavioural, economic, and environmental factors as the most influential among the six main drivers of FLW. Among the twenty-four sub-drivers, high awareness, circular consumption, and supportive policies and legislation emerged as the most critical. Furthermore, these factors significantly contribute to achieving key food-related SDGs, particularly SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), and SDG 2 (zero hunger). Research limitations/implications The study’s findings are expected to guide practitioners in countries that prevent FLW in circular AFSCs to achieve the food-related SDGs. Originality/value Although factors influencing FLW reduction significantly impact food-related SDGs, the literature has not fully explored their significance and effects on these goals.