A fuzzy-based maturity model for circular economy in manufacturing firms

The success of implementing circular economy practices at the micro level depends on the assessment frameworks used to monitor progress and identify opportunities for improvement. In this regard, maturity models play a crucial role, as they encourage companies to evolve to a higher maturity level. However, as maturity is a practice-based concept, its evaluation relies on human judgement, which is often imprecise and vague. Focusing on this aspect, this article introduces a novel fuzzy-based maturity model for assessing circular economy practices in manufacturing firms. The model generates an overall maturity index to classify firms into five distinct maturity stages and guide the identification of improvement priorities. The assessment approach was empirically tested across three manufacturing plants, confirming its applicability and practical contribution. From a theoretical perspective, the model contributes to the field by incorporating the subjectivity inherent in circular maturity assessments. For practitioners, the model serves as a self-assessment tool to prioritise circular practices.