Evaluating the transformation potential of Sri Lankan sugarcane industry towards circular economy : an empirical study based on life cycle assessment

Abstract

In response to urgent global sustainability challenges, rapid action is imperative. The linear economy's resource depletion contrasts with the circular economy's resource optimization. As industries expand, thorough sustainability assessments, supported by versatile tools and concepts, become essential. This study delves into transitioning Sri Lanka's sugarcane industry to a circular economy, considering nationwide benefits. A comprehensive approach integrates diverse tools, aiming to boost the macro-economic performance of the sugarcane sector. The study's foundation rests upon existing sugarcane refineries in Sri Lanka. Objectives encompass evaluating the sugar and sugarcane industry's macro-economic performance, identifying local sugarcane biorefinery configurations, scrutinizing existing and potential biorefinery strategies, and analyzing material flow, circularity, and environmental life cycle performance of diverse configurations. Outcomes reveal the industry's subpar macro-economic performance compared to global and regional standards. Three biorefinery configurations emerge: one featuring sugar and ethanol production, another adding carbon dioxide capture, and a third integrating biogas and biofertilizer production. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) identifies criteria for biorefinery selection, generating an alternative-ranked list. Material flow analysis underscores circularity potential, with the hypothetical configuration achieving 16.24% circularity, followed by the 3rd at 15.69%. Configuration one and configuration two show lower circularity, highlighting the value of additional pathways. Life cycle environmental performance is strongest in the hypothetical configuration, followed by the 3rd; the 1st exhibits higher impact. Human health, resources, and ecosystems are most affected. Enhanced configurations correlate with improved life cycle environmental performance. In conclusion, this study suggests promoting circular principles, diversifying by-product utilization, boosting local sugar production, and prioritizing comprehensive biorefinery setups as viable avenues for enhancing sustainability and environmental performance within Sri Lanka's sugarcane industry