Reconciling the efficiency of Industry 4.0 and circular economy with the human empowerment of lean: unraveling the challenges and opportunities of integration

Abstract

Purpose

To analyze the integration of the circular economy and Industry 4.0 in agtechs through lean integration and people.

Design/methodology/approach

Following in-depth interviews with key informants, data tabulation was performed via families of viewpoints supported by the primary elements mapped in the investigated context.

Findings

The integration of the circular economy with Industry 4.0, and integrated into lean production, aiming to eliminate waste and maximize customer value, and the valorization of people are fundamental in the context of recycling, reuse and reutilization of materials not only in the agricultural sector but also, since it is the object of study of this research. The use of I4.0 technologies and solutions, such as applications, sensors, artificial intelligence and digital platforms, allows for the collection and analysis of real-time data, facilitating decision-making and monitoring of agricultural operations.

Research limitations/implications

The research limitations may include the limited sample of Agtechs analyzed, which might not cover all innovations and trends existing in the sector; data and information available up to the study date (April 2023), which might not reflect more recent developments in the field of Agtechs and the circular economy.

Practical implications

The circular economy seeks to minimize waste and maximize resource use, promoting recycling, reusing and repurposing of materials. In contrast, Industry 4.0 refers to the application of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the internet of things and automation to optimize productive processes and make them more efficient. Lean integration, which aims to eliminate waste and maximize customer value, and the appreciation of people are fundamental in this context.

Social implications

The use of technologies and solutions from Industry 4.0, like apps, sensors, artificial intelligence and digital platforms, allows real-time data collection and analysis, facilitating decision-making and monitoring of agricultural operations. In addition, the provision of online consulting and technical assistance services contributes to producer training and the maximization of results.

Originality/value

Significant benefits for the agricultural sector, such as greater efficiency, sustainability, product quality, traceability, cost reduction and productivity increase. The use of advanced technologies and the valorization of people are key elements to drive this integration and promote digital transformation in the field. The integration of the circular economy and Industry 4.0 in agtechs, integrating lean production and people.

Citation

Sehnem, S., Junges, I., Soares, S.V. and Maganda, A. (2025), "Reconciling the efficiency of Industry 4.0 and circular economy with the human empowerment of lean: unraveling the challenges and opportunities of integration", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 21 No. 3, pp. 429-450. https://doi.org/10.1108/SRJ-01-2024-0011