Towards circularity in supply chains: The case of agtechs

This study seeks to analyse the influence of strategic stakeholders and Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies on the circularity of supply chains among Brazilian agtech companies. A survey was conducted using a national database of Brazilian agtechs. The results indicate that: (i) strategic stakeholders significantly influence the adoption of circular economy practices, of which rural producers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), consumers, universities, and technology suppliers have the most impact on agtech supply chains; (ii) agtechs are predominantly adopting AI and big data technologies to increase the circularity of supply chain operations; however, contrary to expectations, I4.0 technologies do not show a statistically significant influence on circularity in the analysed context. This study reveals a trend towards circularity linked to operational efficiency and digitalisation; stakeholder engagement spans from the selection of technological standards to more selective consumption behaviours in this sector, involving high technological standards, complex and valuable resources, and a transition towards circularity supported by specific I4.0 technologies. The findings of this study are pertinent for enabling more assertive stakeholder engagement, generating data to support public policies and programmes aimed at strengthening the agtech sector; the identification of a technological trend in the agtech sector can be leveraged by technology suppliers and investors.