Circular economy strategies in industrial engineering: From theory to practice
Abstract
The transition to a Circular Economy (CE) represents a paradigm shift in industrial engineering, as it prioritizes sustainability, resource efficiency, and waste minimization. This paper explores comprehensive strategies for implementing CE principles, emphasizing on waste-to-resource transformation, material recovery, bio-energy production, and sustainable supply chain management. Leveraging advanced tools such as Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), material flow optimization, and process simulation, industries can identify inefficiencies and adopt innovative practices that align with global sustainability goals. The research delves into key challenges, including technological limitations, economic constraints, and regulatory barriers, while highlighting the pivotal role of policy frameworks and public-private partnerships in fostering CE adoption. Furthermore, emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are identified as enablers of CE strategies, driving innovations in resource management, reverse logistics, and real-time monitoring. Through case studies and sector-specific applications, the paper underscores the transformative potential of CE in reshaping traditional industrial processes into sustainable systems. It advocates for collaborative efforts, robust policymaking, and technological advancements to address existing challenges, paving the way for a resilient, eco-friendly industrial economy. This work serves as a guide for academics, practitioners, and policymakers aiming at effective integration of CE principles into industrial engineering practices.
How to Cite This Article
Nwamekwe Charles Onyeka, Okpala Charles Chikwendu (2025). Circular economy strategies in industrial engineering: From theory to practice . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 6(1), 1773-1782.