Developing the Circularity and Sustainability Indicator Set for Companies in the Biomass Supply Chain

Abstract

The growing need for sustainability and resource efficiency has led companies to consider transitioning into circular business models. However, selecting the best circular and sustainable alternative remains challenging due to the variety and multidiscipline of environmental, social, and economic indicators. This study introduces a comprehensive set of criteria designed to evaluate the circularity and sustainability of various operational choices for companies within the biomass supply chain. A total of 49 indicators are classified into four main sub-indexes: 20 environmental indicators, five economic indicators, 15 social indicators, and nine circularity indicators. These indicators were selected using a life cycle thinking approach and are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the European Commission framework, aiming to facilitate a successful transition to a circular economy. This set of criteria can be utilized to conduct a comprehensive assessment of sustainability and circularity for biomass companies in the supply chain. Furthermore, it can serve as criterion within decision-support systems to aid in making informed choices.