Challenges and Opportunities of Bio-Circular-Green Economy for Agriculture

Many countries, especially in the tropical and subtropical regions, have a substantial production of agricultural products, both for domestic consumption and export. This study explores the challenges and opportunities presented by the Bio-Circular-Green economy (BCG) model when applied to the agricultural sector. The theory, concepts, approaches, and sustainability assessment tools underpinning the BCG model are reviewed along with examples of agricultural value chains integrating value-added products. The challenges and opportunities associated with adapting the BCG model to the agricultural value chains are presented and a sustainability assessment framework integrating all sustainability pillars developed. Examples of potential value chains considered include value-added products generated from all biomass which align with the goal of promoting a carbon neutrality and BCG model. The potential of agricultural value chains can be enhanced using a biorefinery concept; however, the technology for biorefining to produce value-added products and investment costs pose a major challenge. The technical development of collection and storage processes, as well as the management of logistics are prioritized for appropriate management. The developed sustainability assessment framework includes three tools, viz., life cycle assessment, social life cycle assessment, and cost-benefit analysis, encompass all the sustainability dimensions. These tools are further supported by Nature-based Solution, material flow analysis and ecological footprint to consider the ecosystem conservation, resource prioritization, and ecological capacity limitation, respectively. Graphical Abstract