Search Results (5)

This study evaluates the application of circular economy principles in the wine sector through a demonstrative case developed within the LIFE Climawin project. The initiative focuses on the local valorization of vineyard residues by producing biochar from vine pruning and using it to enrich compost derived from winemaking by-products and sheep manure. The combined application of these soil amendments aims to improve soil structure, enhance carbon sequestration, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers. A systemic evaluation was conducted using the Ecocanvas methodology—a conceptual framework for mapping circular business models across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The analysis integrated a targeted literature review, examination of technical data, direct field observations of composting and biochar production, and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. Results indicate multiple benefits from localized residue valorization, including improved compost quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, potential contributions to long-term soil health, and enhanced resource efficiency. The analysis also highlights economic opportunities, such as reduced dependency on external inputs, and social value creation through local stakeholder engagement. Furthermore, the study identifies factors that enable or constrain the replication and scaling of this model. These findings contribute to frameworks for advancing circular, economically viable, and socially inclusive climate-resilient agricultural systems. Full article

This study investigates the economic viability of a new composting station dedicated to the recycling of date palm by-products. A field experiential analysis was performed in the Figuig Oasis (Morocco), providing the first evidence on the agronomic quality of the compost. The compost produced from date palm by-product was compared to cattle manure and unamended soil and can be considered as a good-quality amendment, demonstrating its ability to enhance soil fertility. Second, a socio-economic survey was conducted to explore farmers’ perceptions and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. A total of 201 farmers out of 450 farmers registered in Figuig’s municipal administration were surveyed. In terms of fertilisation, farmers preferred locally produced organic fertiliser when available in order to improve soil organic matter content and reduce dependence on chemical inputs. The selling price for the compost was set at 0.14 EUR/kg to reflect the current market price for compost and the willingness of about 38% of the farmers surveyed to buy it. Third, a detailed cost/benefit analysis was performed, with a breakdown of the station’s operational and investment expenses. This illustrates the minimum scale needed to generate a viable business model. Financial projections show that increasing production capacity from 350 tonnes/year to 3500 tonnes/year reduces unit production costs while increasing profits. As illustrated by the application of the Ecocanvas framework, the socio-economic analysis reveals the potential to generate positive environmental, economic, and social impacts, as the circular approach could be replicable and scalable in similar oases agro ecosystems. Full article

Incorporating sustainability into business operations is likely to become one of the most significant priorities and challenges for companies in the near future. SMEs operating within conventional frameworks often experience constraints when adjusting to evolving circumstances. They frequently lack resources, qualified experts, skills, and capabilities to enable the efficient implementation of DT within the organization. In this paper, Eurostat datasets were analyzed to uncover trends in SME digitalization and sustainability, focusing on patterns in data utilization, employee training, and environmental considerations. These insights were integrated into an altered Ecocanvas sustainability modeling tool to develop a framework supporting their strategic planning and decision-making. It has proven to be a useful tool for this purpose by mapping business processes against sustainability and strategic goals while indicating where digital or alternative solutions can be introduced. SMEs analyze data and consider environmental impacts at different levels based on their size categories. To determine whether these differences are statistically significant, we have performed one-way ANOVA tests. This paper aims to provide a data-driven situational analysis and tool, which outlines the benefits of data analytics from several aspects while offering practical recommendations for company leaders to consider and implement. Full article

This article reviews the current scenario and the main uncertainties and challenges associated with implementing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Colombia, from which it determines the possible certified technologies under the ASTM D 7566 standard as well as co-processing technologies contemplated within the ASTM D 1655 standard, more suitable for the implementation of SAF production. Likewise, through the PESTEL tool (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal), a diagnosis is made in order to obtain an updated overview of the implementation of SAF in Colombia. Based on the above, it provides recommendations to mitigate the uncertainties identified, and it is complemented by the ECOCANVAS tool, which applies to businesses related to the circular economy, and also include the net production potential of SAF in Colombia, considering the production of feedstock, in agricultural residue of sugarcane, oil palm, corn, and coffee. This study concludes with some policy recommendations that can make SAF implementation viable and allow responsible institutions to organize themselves for better strategic action and identify the fields of research and the need for investment in R + D + i to strengthen the supply chain. Full article