Application of Circular Economy Principles in the Brewing Supply Chain through a Multidisciplinary Approach to Produce Innovative Food and Beverages

Abstract

This research focuses on examining how CE principles can be integrated into the brewing supply chain in the creation of sustainable, innovative food and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages. In this qualitative and quantitative research project, some of the CE principles waste valorization, resource efficiency, energy optimization are analyzed in how they are being applied to brewing practices. Looking at specific CE case studies of breweries and conducting interviews and surveys with stakeholders of the breweries shows that CE leads to the operations advantages such as cost reduction, decreased environmental load, and product differentiation. The paper presents specific perceived risks related to CE application in industries, such as high initial costs and supply chain issues and suggests how these limitations can be addressed. The study gives suggestions to the brewing industry regarding implementation of the CE strategies and suggestions to the policy makers for encouraging the augmented implementation of CE practices.