The transition towards the circular economy (CE) is one of the major priorities of the European Union (EU). By observing its benefits through the prism of sustainable development, this study aims to reveal the intricate relationships between the CE and the economy–society–environment nexus across 27 EU countries during the period from 2012 to 2020. Utilizing an extensive dataset comprising 243 observations drawn from the EUROSTAT database, we employed a panel data analysis. In this research, we quantified the impact of CE indicators on key dependent variables: GDP per capita (economic dimension), mortality, morbidity, and the welfare cost associated with exposure to environment-related risks (social dimension) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the environmental realm. The findings of our study illuminate the multifaceted connections between circular economy practices and the broader goals of sustainable development within the EU-27 context. The CE indicators aggregated at the EU level not only have a beneficial impact on the economy but also on society and the environment. The analysis reveals that each of the six explanatory variables incorporated into the models exhibits the anticipated relationship with at least one of the outcome variables. This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers, public authorities, and other stakeholders seeking to enhance the circular economy landscape in respective countries.

The success of transformation to a circular economic model mainly depends on effective government interventions. The objective of this paper is to reveal the implementation schemes, actors in charge, and funding mechanisms of the circular economy action plan in Greece. Additionally, a comparison has been made concerning the waste management governance practices in Armenia given a few distinct political, social, economic and behavioral characteristics common to both countries. Special emphasis was put on the food industry, since it generates a large amount of waste annually with limited by-product valorization and recycling rate. A comprehensive document analysis has been conducted with deductive or concept-driven approach using the software Atlas.ti. Research results highlighted several deficiencies existing within the policy papers and a set of recommendations covering critical success factors such as education, finance, cooperation, market development, monitoring, and evaluation related to the system change were offered. By addressing these deficiencies, policymakers may ensure an environment conducive to circularity practices and facilitate the transition to a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy.

Efforts to reduce food waste in restaurants are crucial for business efficiency, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. Food waste varies by restaurant type, operations, menu offerings, and customer behavior, yet research on effective reduction strategies remains limited, particularly in Greece and Armenia. This study aims to identify key approaches to minimizing food waste in these countries. Using fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), a method for examining complex causal relationships, we analyzed multiple cases to determine conditions that lead to reduced food waste. Four main paths emerged: (1) digital inventory management combined with educational programs, excluding customer choice enhancement; (2) digital inventory management with flexible dining options, without customer choice enhancement; (3) educational programs with flexible dining, excluding customer choice enhancement; and (4) the combination of digital inventory management, educational programs, and flexible dining. Most cases demonstrating these paths were observed in Greece, indicating more advanced food waste management practices. Interviews highlighted recurring themes such as overordering, portion control, supplier challenges, and the importance of education and policy grounded in social responsibility. The findings provide actionable insights for restaurants and policymakers seeking effective strategies to reduce food waste and promote sustainable practices.

Circular Economy (CE) is a newly emerged concept in the food industry and it proposes a system, where resources are allocated in an efficient way ensuring sustainable economic growth and environmental protection. To reduce the waste and energy use in the food industry, proper policies and strategies should be enacted through close cooperation between the government and the business sector. This article studies the CE concept through an integrated literature review. Specifically, the current conceptualizations by scholars and international organizations are presented, followed by a set of recommended practices from the perspective of waste management, resource and energy use.

The current production model in the agri-food industry is not environmentally conscious and as a result, we face the challenges of extensive and inefficient resource use along with a massive amount of waste. The major objective of this study is to analyze the awareness, practices, and corresponding barriers among the selected enterprises on the circular economy. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods have been used in this study. A survey-based questionnaire has been designed by the author and 40 companies operating in the fruit processing sector (dry fruit and jams production) have been asked to fill in the survey. The results show that although 80% of the respondents are aware of the circular economy, the practices are not intensively implemented and the barriers associated are very diverse including financial burdens such as access to agricultural credits, lack of practical knowledge, and the necessary infrastructure as well as small production volumes, which doesn’t promote innovation and alternative production in the enterprises.

This study investigates the relationship between food security and waste management in Armenia’s agri-food system, which faces challenges such as low productivity, small landholdings, soil degradation, and inefficiencies in livestock and crop production. These issues contribute to food insecurity and dependence on imports. Emphasizing the importance of reducing food loss, the research analyzes data from 2005 to 2022 to identify correlations between food loss and variables such as food import, use, and export. The findings indicate that increased imports, use, and exports of food commodities are linked to higher food loss. Statistical and regression analyses highlight the impact of these factors on food waste and security, identifying key areas for intervention. Recommendations for reducing food loss include improving infrastructure for food imports, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and investing in better storage and preservation facilities. The study advocates for applying circular economy principles, such as redistributing surplus food and valorizing food waste. Strategies like community-supported agriculture (CSA) and clustering actors in the agri-food value chain are suggested to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices.