Diagnostic Tool for Circular Economy Readiness Development and Application for the Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Introduction: The global commitment to sustainability, framed by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has intensified the industrial transition toward regenerative practices. This study develops a diagnostic tool to assess the readiness of manufacturing industries in adopting circular economy strategies. The methodology integrated a systematic literature review with established frameworks—including MATChE, Ready2LOOP, ReSOLVE, ICEQ, SCSC, and LCMM—and utilized fuzzy logic to manage assessment uncertainties. The resulting instrument consists of 123 questions across 14 thematic subareas and four managerial levels. Using a five-point Likert scale, the tool calculates specific subarea indices (IPs) and a Global Readiness Index (IGP). Applied to a Brazilian manufacturing company, the tool successfully identified varying maturity levels, internal management divergences, and critical areas for strategic intervention. Beyond providing a baseline diagnosis, the tool offers practical guidance for decision-makers, supports professional capacity building, and informs public policies aimed at fostering sectoral circularity. By bridging the gap between theoretical circular economy concepts and industrial application, this research provides a robust framework for organizations to identify operational gaps and structure their transition toward sustainable and circular business models.   Objective: This study aims to develop and validate a diagnostic tool to assess the readiness level of manufacturing industries in adopting circular economy strategies.   Theoretical Framework: The research is based on established maturity and readiness models, integrating the MATChE, Ready2LOOP, ReSOLVE, ICEQ, SCSC, and LCMM frameworks to compose a multidimensional view of circularity.   Method: The methodology involved a systematic literature review to identify indicators and the development of the FANPI tool, which consists of 123 questions structured into 14 thematic subareas and four managerial levels. Data collection utilized a Likert scale and fuzzy logic, validated through a case study in a Brazilian company within the packaging sector.   Results and Discussion: The application revealed a Global Readiness Index of 4.55, indicating high maturity, although critical gaps were identified in areas such as training and service digitalization. The results demonstrate that the tool is capable of capturing internal heterogeneities and guiding segmented strategic actions.   Originality/Value: The originality lies in the creation of an instrument adapted to the national industrial reality, filling the gap for tools that combine academic rigor with practical applicability and immediate strategic recommendations.