Mapping Barriers to Agro-Waste Circularity: SLR-based WINGS Analysis

Mishra, Sarmistha and Sahoo, Dukhabandhu and Mohapatra, Souryabrata and Mohanty, Pritisudha (2025): Mapping Barriers to Agro-Waste Circularity: SLR-based WINGS Analysis. Published in: Environmental Economics and Policy Studies

Abstract

As agriculture confronts mounting pressure to enhance sustainability and resource efficiency, circular bioeconomy (CBE) practices—particularly the reuse of agro-waste—offer a promising solution. However, widespread implementation remains hindered by numerous barriers that are not yet fully understood in their interconnections and influence. This study investigates these challenges through a systematic literature review (SLR) and an expert-based Weighted Influence Non-linear Gauge System (WINGS) analysis. The SLR identifies and categorises critical supply- and demand-side barriers, while the WINGS approach evaluates their relative strength and influence. Key barriers include the lack of government regulations and incentives, limited knowledge and skills for effective agro-waste reuse, and an underdeveloped market for bio-based products. These barriers exhibit strong causal relationships, indicating their central role in delaying CBE adoption. By revealing the interdependencies among barriers, the study provides a structured roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to prioritise interventions. The findings underscore the need for coordinated policy support, capacity-building initiatives, and market development strategies to accelerate sustainable agro-waste reuse in agriculture.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: CBE; Agro-waste; barriers; SLR; WINGS
• Subjects: O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O1 - Economic Development > O13 - Agriculture ; Natural Resources ; Energy ; Environment ; Other Primary Products; Q - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics ; Environmental and Ecological Economics > Q1 - Agriculture > Q16 - R&D ; Agricultural Technology ; Biofuels ; Agricultural Extension Services; Q - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics ; Environmental and Ecological Economics > Q2 - Renewable Resources and Conservation > Q20 - General

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