Using the Fuzzy TOPSIS Method to Identify and Prioritize Factors Affecting the Implementation of the Circular Economy of Bread

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Food waste in supply chains presents significant challenges, necessitating efforts to recapture lost value. Circular economy approaches offer solutions to address these issues. This study examines the circular economy of bread in Iran, aiming to identify and prioritize factors for its implementation using the fuzzy TOPSIS method. Through interviews with 20-grain industry experts in Isfahan Province, we identified 38 basic and five formative factors. Fuzzy TOPSIS was then employed to rank these factors based on expert preferences. Key findings reveal that reducing bread waste depends on critical factors such as efficient utilization of bread waste, consumer behavior patterns related to bread consumption, production practices within the bread industry, flour production and storage processes, and government policy effectiveness. The most significant impact came from the diversity and dispersion of small collection centers for stale bread in peri-urban areas. Additionally, fluctuating demand for bread, leading to surpluses and rapid staleness, and the use of slaughterhouse waste in animal feed production contribute significantly to waste. While all identified factors are critical, their importance is nearly equal, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to effectively implement a circular economy for bread in Iran.

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References

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Environmental Resources Research
Volume 13, Issue 1
July 2025
Pages 35-47

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