TOWARDS A CIRCULAR ECONOMY FRAMEWORK FOR SME BAKERIES INTEGRATED WITH FARMING OPERATIONS

Abstract

SME bakeries face increasing pressure to improve sustainability while remaining competitive. Integrating farming and baking operations offers a pathway to achieve this by producing key ingredients on-site and reusing waste streams to close resource loops. However, designing such integrated systems is complex, requiring alignment between farm outputs, bakery demand, and circular economy principles. This study addresses these challenges by developing a Circular Economy Framework to guide the integration of farming and bakery processes. The framework highlights the interrelationships between production, waste reuse, and by-product transformation, offering SMEs a structured approach to balance environmental, economic, and operational goals. Grounded in the research onion paradigm, the study establishes the foundation for a future Circular Economy Decision Support System. Beyond improving efficiency and profitability, the framework contributes to food security and sustainable manufacturing practices, enabling SME bakeries to transition from survival strategies toward long-term resilience and competitiveness.