A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Orange Peel Waste Management in the Circular Economy Perspective

This study develops an integrated circular economy assessment framework for valorizing orange peel waste (OPW), applied to a biocomposite production process for additive manufacturing and comparatively evaluated against anaerobic digestion, incineration, and animal feed pathways. The methodology combines three sequential steps: (i) a Holistic Diagnosis (HD), supported by Systemic Design and META-SWOT/C-DE analyses, to map material and energy flows, stakeholder relations, and territorial dynamics; (ii) a cradle-to-gate Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) to quantify environmental impacts of pelletized biocomposite production; and (iii) a Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) integrated with circular economy indicators based on the 9R framework to compare alternative OPW valorization options. Results demonstrate that agricultural waste valorization requires a systemic and multidisciplinary approach, where technological efficiency is integrated with environmental and contextual dimensions. The analysis highlights key leverage points—such as multi-stream waste valorization and renewable energy integration—while identifying structural constraints related to seasonality, biopolymer costs, and scalability. Environmental findings confirm that substituting virgin materials with agri-food residues reduces impacts, particularly by avoiding disposal and lowering resource depletion. Sensitivity analyses further underline the importance of low-carbon electricity mixes and increased OPW incorporation to support decarbonization and long-term circular transition pathways in agro-industrial systems.