Advancing circular economy in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering: Principles, alignment with United Nations sustainable development goals, and pathways to implementation European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 European Journal of Chemistry ISSN 2153-2249 (Print) / ISSN 2153-2257 (Online) – Copyright © 2023 The Authors – Atlanta Publishing House LLC – Printed in the USA. This work is published and licensed by Atlanta Publishing House LLC – CC BY NC – Some Rights Reserved. https://dx.doi.org/10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 European Journal of Chemistry View Journal Online View Article Online Advancing circular economy in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering: Principles, alignment with United Nations sustainable development goals, and pathways to implementation Salaha Saeed 1,2, Muhammad Yousaf Arshad 2,3,* and Anam Suhail Ahmed 4 1 Institute of Environmental Engineering and Research, Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan 2 Corporate Sustainability and Chemical Management Department, Interloop Limited, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan 3 Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan 4 Mud-Logging and Well Drilling Department, Halliburton Company, Delaware, 19720, United States of America * Corresponding author at: Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan. e-mail: yousaf.arshad96@yahoo.com (M.Y. Arshad). 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Received: 26 May 2023 Received in revised form: 12 July 2023 Accepted: 26 July 2023 Published online: 30 September 2023 Printed: 30 September 2023 This groundbreaking review explores the crucial role of the circular economy in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. It surpasses a mere examination of principles and methods, delving into the profound significance and urgency of this transformative shift. By analyzing key elements such as resource efficiency, waste valorization, sustainable product design, industrial symbiosis, and policy integration, the study highlights the power of collaboration, technological advancements, and extensive literature research. It reveals the remarkable alignment between the circular economy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing how circular practices promote resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable production and consumption patterns, thus driving progress across multiple SDGs. With a specific focus on responsible consumption and production, clean energy, innovative industrial practices, climate action, ecosystem protection, water resource management, job creation, economic growth, sustainable urbanization, and collaboration, the review provides a comprehensive roadmap for adopting circularity. Its practical recommendations cover sustainable material selection, resource efficiency, closing loop, digitalization, and robust policy support. In addition, it emphasizes the paramount importance of collaboration, stakeholder engagement, education, capacity building, circular supply chain management, and effective policy frameworks in spearheading circular economy initiatives. Drawing inspiration from diverse circular economy models and compelling case studies in industrial chemistry, the study highlights the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, ensuring both sustainability and positive societal impact. This comprehensive review serves as a guiding light, demonstrating the immense potential of the circular economy in driving sustainable development. It offers actionable guidance for implementing circular practices, empowering professionals to make tangible contributions to a more sustainable future. Additionally, it serves as a foundational piece, fueling the advancement of knowledge, inspiring further research, and propelling remarkable progress in the ever-evolving fields of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. Green synthesis Circular economy Industrial chemistry Digital sustainability Life cycle assessment Sustainable development goals Cite this: Eur. J. Chem. 2023, 14(3), 418-428 Journal website: www.eurjchem.com 1. Introduction The circular economy is a concept that aims to redefine traditional linear economic models by promoting the reuse, recycling, and regeneration of resources. In the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering, the circu- lar economy plays a crucial role in the transformation of tradi- tional industrial practices into more sustainable and environ- mentally friendly processes [1]. Resource efficiency is one of the key principles of the circular economy and is to maximize resource efficiency. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can contribute to this goal by optimizing produc- tion processes to minimize waste generation and reduce resource consumption. By implementing cleaner production methods and recycling or reusing by-products, industries can minimize their environmental footprint and conserve natural resources. Waste Valorization and Recycling is one of the principles of circular economy. It encourages the valorization of waste materials by finding alternative uses or transforming them into valuable resources. Industrial chemistry and environ- mental engineering can play a crucial role in developing techno- logies and processes for waste treatment, such as recycling and upcycling, to convert waste materials into new products or feedstocks for industrial processes. This approach reduces the reliance on virgin resources and mitigates the environmental impacts of waste disposal [2]. ABSTRACT REVIEW ARTICLE KEYWORDS https://dx.doi.org/10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 https://www.eurjchem.com/ https://dx.doi.org/10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 mailto:yousaf.arshad96@yahoo.com http://www.eurjchem.com/ https://crossmark.crossref.org/dialog/?doi=10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452&domain=pdf&date_stamp=2023-09-30 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 415 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 1. Circular economy model. The principles of circular economy also emphasize the importance of designing products and processes with sustainability in mind. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can contribute by developing innovative materials, optimizing product lifecycles, and implementing eco-design strategies. By considering the entire life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal industries can reduce environmental impacts and improve resource efficiency [3]. Figure 1 highlights the circular economy model. Industrial symbiosis is a concept closely related to the circular economy, where different industries collaborate to exchange resources, by-products, or energy. This approach promotes resource efficiency and waste reduction by creating synergies between industries. Industrial chemistry and environ-mental engineering can facilitate the implementation of industrial symbiosis by identifying opportunities for colla- boration and developing frameworks for resource exchange [4]. The circular economy encourages the adoption of sustainable chemical processes that minimize the use of hazardous substances and promote the use of renewable feedstocks. This includes the development of greener synthesis methods, the use of biobased materials, and the implementation of cleaner production technologies [5]. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a tool widely used in environmental engineering to evaluate the environmental impacts of products and processes throughout their entire life cycle. LCA can help identify areas for improvement and guide decision-making towards more circular and sustainable solutions [6]. The circular economy is increasingly being integrated into environmental policies and regulations. Governments and regulatory bodies are promoting the adoption of the principles of circular economy in industrial sectors, setting targets for waste reduction, resource efficiency, and sustainable production [7]. This review paper encompasses a comprehensive explo- ration of the circular economy’s role in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. It delves into various aspects such as resource efficiency, waste valorization, sustainable product design, industrial symbiosis, and policy integration. The significance of this review article lies in its contribution to the existing knowledge gap. Surprisingly, no similar work has been done in the past, making this review a pioneering endeavor. By shedding light on the transformative power of the circular economy, this review paper provides valuable insight into the potential benefits and opportunities it offers. It goes beyond a mere overview of principles and methods, emphasizing the urgent need for a paradigm shift towards circularity. The paper underscores the importance of collaboration, technological advancements, and thorough literature survey in driving the circular economy. Furthermore, this review paper highlights the alignment between the circular economy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By elucidating how circular practices can contribute to resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable production and consumption patterns, the paper demonstrates the broader implications and positive impact of circularity across multiple SDGs. Overall, this review paper not only fills a significant knowledge gap but also provides actionable guidance for practitioners and policy makers to implement circular practices. It lays the groundwork for further research and advancements in the fields of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. Its findings have the potential to drive sustainable development, promote respon- sible resource use, and contribute to a more sustainable and circular future. Sustainable materials refer to materials that are sourced, produced, and utilized in a way that minimizes negative envi- ronmental impacts and supports long-term ecological balance [8,9]. Bio-based materials, derived from renewable resources such as plants, trees, or agricultural waste, align perfectly with this objective [10,11]. By utilizing bio-based materials, we reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources such as fossil fuels and minimize the associated environmental degradation and carbon emissions [12,13]. The use of bio-based materials also contributes to cleaner production practices [14,15]. The manufacturing processes for bio-based materials often require lower energy inputs and generate fewer harmful by-products compared to traditional materials derived from fossil fuels [16,17]. These processes can be more environmentally friendly, incorporating techniques such as bio-refining or fermentation, which have reduced carbon footprints and lower levels of pollution [18,19]. Cleaner production methods associated with bio-based materials help minimize waste, energy consumption, and harmful emissions, resulting in a more sustainable manu- facturing approach [20,21]. Furthermore, the use of bio resources and bio-composites strengthens the sustainability and cleaner manufacturing theme. Bio resources, such as biomass or agricultural residues, offer a renewable and abundant source of raw materials for various industries [22, 23]. These resources can be transformed into bio-composites, which are composite materials composed of a polymer matrix reinforced with natural fibers or particles derived from bio- based sources [24]. 416 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 2. Linear economy vs the circular economy model. Bio-composites possess desirable properties such as being lightweight, strength, and durability, while also being biodegradable or compostable. By utilizing bio resources and bio-composites, we enhance sustainability by reducing dependence on fossil-based materials, minimizing waste generation, and promoting circular economy principles. 2. Background Various case studies and best practices highlight the successful implementation of circular economy principles in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. These examples showcase real-world applications, innovative techno- logies, and successful business models that promote sustain- nable practices [25,26]. The circular economy emphasizes the importance of sustainable materials management, which involves reducing material consumption, optimizing material flow, and promoting resource recovery. This approach aims to minimize waste generation, extend the lifespan of materials, and create closed-loop systems [27]. Industrial ecology is a field that applies ecological principles to industrial systems, seeking to minimize waste, optimize resource use, and promote sustainability. It aligns closely with the circular economy and offers strategies and frameworks for designing and managing industrial processes in a more sustainable manner [28]. Figure 2 highlights the comparison between linear and circular economy models based on industrial chemistry and engineering. Technological innovations play a crucial role in enabling the transition towards a circular economy in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. These innovations include advanced recycling technologies, sustainable material develop- ment, process optimization techniques, and digital solutions that improve resource efficiency and promote circularity [29]. The circular economy requires collaboration and engagement among various stakeholders, including industry, policymakers, researchers, and consumers. Building partnerships and foste- ring cooperation among these stakeholders is essential for developing circular economy strategies, implementing sustain- nable practices, and driving systemic change [30]. Circular Economy in the Chemical Industry specifically focuses on the application of circular economy principles in the chemical industry. It discusses strategies for resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable product design, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of implementing circularity in this sector [31]. Circular Economy in Environmental Engineering explores the integration of the circular economy principles in the field of environmental engineering. It discusses how circularity can be applied in waste management, water treatment, and renewable energy systems, emphasizing the importance of resource recovery and sustainable infrastructure design [32]. Circular Economy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) examines the linkages between the circular economy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It discusses how circular economy strategies can contribute to achieving various SDGs related to sustainable production, responsible consumption, climate action, and resource conser- vation [33]. Circular Economy Business Models focus on circular economy business models in the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. It explores different business strategies and models, such as product-as-a-service, sharing platforms, and closed-loop supply chains, that can enable the transition to a circular economy [34]. Circular Economy and Industrial Sectors examine the application of circular economy principles in specific industrial sectors, such as the automotive industry, electronics sector, and construction sector. It discusses strategies, challenges, and opportunities for implementing circularity in these sectors, highlighting the role of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering [35]. Circular Economy and Sustainable Supply Chains explores the role of circular economy principles in building sustainable supply chains. It discusses strategies for closing the material loop, reducing waste, and promoting resource efficiency across the supply chain, with a focus on the contribution of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering [36]. Circular Economy and Policy Frameworks discusses policy frameworks and initiatives that support the transition to a circular economy. It explores the role of governments, regula- tory bodies, and international organizations in promoting circularity in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering, emphasizing the need for policy interventions and supportive measures [37]. 3. Circular economy methods Circular Economy and Innovation focuses on the role of innovation in driving the circular economy in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. It discusses the importance of technological advancement, research and development, and collaboration between academia and industry in fostering circularity and sustainability [38]. There are several methods of circular economy in the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 417 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 3. Linear business models conversion strategies for circular economy. Closed-Loop Systems and Material Recycling involve the recycling and reutilization of materials, allowing them to circulate within the economy rather than being disposed of as waste. This approach reduces the need for virgin resources and minimizes waste generation. Material recycling techniques such as mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and thermal recycling can be employed to recover valuable materials from waste streams [39]. Product Life extension and Repair extends the lifespan of products through repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing can significantly reduce waste and resource consumption. By promoting product durability, designing for disassembly and establishing repair networks, the circular economy aims to maximize the utility of products and minimize their environmental impact [40]. Biomimicry and Nature- Inspired Design draws inspiration from nature, and biomimicry and nature-inspired design approaches seek to develop innovative and sustainable solutions by emulating natural processes and systems. By applying these principles in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering, it is possible to create more efficient and sustainable processes, materials, and products [41]. Industrial Symbiosis and Resource Exchange involves establishing symbiotic relation- ships between different industries to exchange resources, by- products, and energy. This approach facilitates the efficient utilization of resources and promotes waste reduction. By identifying synergies and fostering collaboration, industrial symbiosis contributes to the circular economy and is explicitly shown in Figure 3 [42]. Green chemistry principles promote the design and development of chemical processes that minimize the use of hazardous substances, reduce waste generation, and increase energy efficiency. By adopting sustainable processes and using safer chemicals, industrial chemistry can contribute to the circular economy and reduce its environmental impact [5]. Industrial Upcycling and Repurposing involves transforming waste or by-products into new, higher-value materials or products. This approach promotes resource efficiency and reduces waste by finding alternative uses for materials that would otherwise be discarded [3]. Digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics, can be used to optimize industrial processes, resource management, and logistics. By collecting and analyzing data, companies can identify areas for improvement, improve resource efficiency, and reduce environmental impacts [43]. Product Service Systems (PSS) and sharing economy models shift the focus from selling products to providing services. Instead of owning products, consumers can access them as services, which can lead to reduced resource consumption and waste. PSS and sharing economy models encourage the durability, reparability, and efficient use of the product [44]. Eco-design principles involve considering the entire life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal, and optimizing it for environmental performance. Sustainable product development practices aim to minimize environmental impacts, improve resource efficiency, and promote circularity [45]. Reverse logistics focuses on the management of product returns, remanufacturing, and recycling processes. Closed-loop supply chains integrate reverse logistics, allowing the recovery and reuse of materials, components, and products, thus reducing waste and optimizing resource utilization [46]. These methods provide further insights and applications of methods that can be employed in the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering to promote the circular economy. They explore specific techniques, technologies, and strategies that can contribute to resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability in industrial processes. 4. Industrial Green synthesis approaches and role of green synthesis for circular economy Green synthesis refers to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly methods for producing chemicals, materials, and pharmaceuticals. It aims to minimize the use of hazardous substances, reduce energy consumption, and promote the efficient utilization of resources. Green synthesis plays a crucial role in the circular economy by aligning with its principles of resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability. During green synthesis focuses on developing sustainable processes that use environmentally benign solvents and reaction conditions. This approach reduces the environmental impact of chemical production, minimizes waste generation, and promotes the efficient use of resources [47]. Green synthesis promotes the use of renewable feedstocks, such as biomass-derived materials and agricultural residues, as alternatives to fossil-based resources. By utilizing renewable feedstocks, it reduces reliance on finite resources, lowers carbon emissions, and contributes to a more sustainable and circular economy [48]. Green synthesis focuses on the development of efficient catalysts and reaction optimization techniques that enhance selectivity, reduce waste, and minimize the use of toxic or rare materials. By improving the efficiency of chemical reactions, it reduces resource consumption and promotes the circularity of chemical processes. All detailed industrial approaches for green synthesis have been shown in Figure 4 [49]. 418 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 4. Industrial chemistry green synthesis approaches for different sectors. Green synthesis incorporates bio-catalysis, which utilizes enzymes and microorganisms, as a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical processes. Bio-catalysis offers high selectivity, mild reaction conditions, and reduced energy requirements, thus contributing to the circular economy and environmental sustainability [50]. Green synthesis considers the environmental impact of the entire life cycle of a product, from the extraction of raw materials to the disposal. Life cycle assessment (LCA) methods are used to evaluate the environmental footprint and identify opportunities to improve the sustainability and circularity of chemical processes [51]. These green synthesis implications provide insight into the role of green synthesis for the circular economy in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. It highlights the importance of sustainable processes, renewable feedstocks, catalysts, bio catalysis, and life cycle assessment in promoting resource efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of chemical production. Table 1 presents industrial case studies that highlight the role of green synthesis for the circular economy. 5. Role of computational chemistry digital tools for promoting circular economy The role of digital tools in promoting the circular economy in the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering is significant. Digital tools, such as data analytics, modeling, simulation, and monitoring systems, play a crucial role in optimizing processes, reducing waste, improving resource efficiency, and facilitating the transition to a circular economy. They enable better decision making, improved material flow management, and the development of innovative solutions. There are multiple specific roles of digital tools like IoT-enabled sensors for real-time monitoring of resource consumption and waste generation [67]. In process optimi- zation, digital tools help optimize industrial processes by analyzing data, identifying inefficiencies, and suggesting improvements. They enable the implementation of cleaner production techniques and the reduction of resource consump- tion and waste generation. While the Material Traceability and Tracking Relics Digital tools facilitate the tracking and tracing of materials throughout their lifecycle. This promotes transparency, allows for better management of material flows, and supports the integration of recycled or reused materials into production processes. Block chain-based platforms for the traceability and certification of sustainable and circular products [68]. Figure 5 highlights the digital solution of the circular economy model for advance Lifecycle Assessment using digital tools to aid in conducting lifecycle assessments (LCAs) for evaluating the environmental impact of products or processes. LCAs help identify opportunities for improvement, identify hotspots, and support decision-making toward more sustainable and circular practices. Life cycle assessment (LCA) software for evaluating the environmental impact of products and processes [69]. Supply Chain Management digital tools enhance supply chain management by improving communication, collabo- ration, and coordination among stakeholders. They enable real- time data sharing, inventory management, and optimization of transportation and logistics, leading to reduced waste, improved resource utilization, and improved circularity. Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 419 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Table 1. Case studies of industrial sector based on green synthesis approaches with key benefits. Case study Industrial sector Green synthesis approach Key benefits Reference Pharmaceutical APIs Pharmaceutical Use of renewable feedstock ̵Reduced dependence on fossil-based resources ̵Minimized carbon emissions ̵Reduced environmental impact ̵Improved sustainability [48] Catalytic processes Chemical Development of efficient catalysts ̵Higher selectivity and reduced waste generation ̵Minimized use of toxic or rare materials ̵Enhanced resource efficiency [49] Bioplastics Polymer Utilization of renewable feed stocks ̵Reduced reliance on fossil-based plastics ̵Lower carbon footprint ̵Increased circularity of plastic production ̵Improved waste management [52] Waste-to-energy Environmental Engineering Biocatalysts and enzyme engineering ̵Enhanced energy recovery from waste ̵Reduced environmental pollution ̵Improved resource utilization ̵Sustainable waste management [53] Bio-based plastics Packaging Use of renewable feedstock ̵Reduced reliance on fossil-based plastics ̵Lower carbon emissions ̵Enhanced resource efficiency ̵Improved waste management [54] Green solvents Chemical Development of sustainable solvents ̵Reduced environmental impact ̵Lower toxicity ̵Enhanced worker safety ̵Improved process sustainability [55] Sustainable fuels Energy Biomass conversion into biofuels ̵Lower carbon emissions ̵Renewable energy source ̵Reduced dependence on fossil fuels ̵Circular use of agricultural waste [56] Green nanomaterials Electronics Green synthesis of nanomaterials ̵Reduced environmental impact ̵Lower toxicity ̵Enhanced material efficiency ̵Reduced resource consumption ̵Improved product recyclability [57] Green dyes Textile Use of plant-based dyes ̵Reduced dependence on synthetic dyes ̵Lower environmental impact ̵Improved biodegradability ̵Reduced water pollution [58] Eco-friendly cosmetics Personal Care Sustainable extraction of natural ingredients ̵Reduced environmental impact ̵Avoidance of harmful chemicals ̵Support for biodiversity and local communities ̵Enhanced product sustainability [59] Green catalysis Chemical Use of renewable catalysts ̵Reduced use of toxic metals ̵Lower energy consumption ̵Increased product selectivity ̵Improved recycling and reusability [60] Sustainable building materials Construction Use of recycled and bio-based materials ̵Reduced reliance on virgin materials ̵Lower carbon emissions ̵Enhanced resource efficiency ̵Reduced waste generation [61] Green battery materials Energy Storage Sustainable production of battery materials ̵Reduced reliance on non-renewable resources ̵Lower environmental impact ̵Improved recyclability and reusability of batteries [62] Sustainable paints Coatings Use of natural and non-toxic pigments ̵Reduced use of hazardous chemicals ̵Lower environmental and health risks ̵Enhanced indoor air quality [63] Green fertilizers Agriculture Utilization of organic waste for nutrient recovery ̵Circular use of agricultural by-products ̵Reduced environmental pollution ̵Enhanced soil health and fertility [64] Sustainable adhesives Manufacturing Development of bio-based and non-toxic adhesives ̵Lower emissions and reduced use of hazardous chemicals ̵Improved product recyclability and end-of-life management ̵Reduced environmental impact and human health risks [65] Green lubricants Automotive Use of bio-based and biodegradable lubricants ̵Reduced environmental pollution and toxicity ̵Lower carbon footprint and resource consumption ̵Enhanced equipment longevity and performance [66] The product design and manufacturing digital tools support sustainable product design by enabling virtual prototyping, simulation, and optimization. They help to create products that are easier to recycle, repair, or remanufacture, thus prolonging their useful life and reducing waste generation. Digital Marketplaces and Sharing Platforms facilitate the exchange, sharing, and reuse of resources, products, and services. They enable the creation of circular business models, such as product-as-a-service, sharing, economy platforms, and online marketplaces for used or refurbished products. Digital platforms for sharing and renting resources, such as machinery, equipment, or office space [70]. Digital marketplaces for buying and selling used or refurbished products [71]. Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Digital tools harness the power of data analytics and artificial intelligence to extract insights, identify patterns, and optimize processes. They enable predictive maintenance, energy optimization, and intelligent decision-making, leading to improved resource efficiency and reduced environmental impact. 420 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Table 2. Highlights the digital tools with their roles, functions and benefits. Digital tool Role and function Benefits Reference IoT-enabled sensors Real-time monitoring of resource consumption and waste generation ̵Optimization of resource utilization ̵Identification of inefficiencies and waste reduction ̵Data-driven decision-making for process optimization [74] Blockchain-based platforms Traceability and certification of sustainable and circular products ̵Transparency and trust in supply chains ̵Authentication of product origin and quality ̵Enhanced circularity and reduced risks of counterfeit or non-compliant products [75] Life cycle assessment (LCA) Evaluation of environmental impact of products and processes ̵Identification of environmental hotspots and improvement opportunities ̵Support for sustainable product design and decision-making ̵Enhanced understanding of product lifecycle and circularity [76] Digital marketplaces Sharing and renting resources, such as machinery, equipment, or office space ̵Improved resource utilization and reduced idle capacity ̵Access to shared resources and services for circular business models ̵Promotion of collaborative consumption and reduced waste generation [77] Digital platforms Buying and selling used or refurbished products ̵Extended product lifespan and reduced waste ̵Creation of secondary markets for circular products ̵Increased accessibility to affordable, sustainable options [71] AI and machine learning Optimization of production processes, waste reduction, and energy efficiency ̵Improved process efficiency and reduced resource consumption ̵Real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance for enhanced sustainability ̵Identification of patterns and insights for circular economy strategies [78] Consumer engagement apps Mobile apps for recycling guidance, sustainability information, and product traceability ̵Education and engagement of consumers in circular practices ̵Increased awareness and involvement in recycling and sustainable choices ̵Transparency and information on product lifecycle and sustainability [79] Digital twin Virtual replica of physical systems or processes for monitoring, analysis, and optimization ̵Real-time monitoring and optimization of resource utilization ̵Improved operational efficiency and reduced waste ̵Enhanced predictive maintenance and reduced downtime [80] Big data analytics Analysis of large datasets to extract insights, identify patterns, and optimize processes ̵Identification of opportunities for waste reduction and resource efficiency ̵Data-driven decision-making for circular economy strategies ̵Improved forecasting and planning for better resource management [81] Virtual reality (VR) Immersive technology for visualization, design, and simulation of circular processes ̵Enhanced product design and prototyping for recyclability and reusability ̵Evaluation of material flows and process efficiency in a virtual environment ̵Improved stakeholder communication and engagement in circular initiatives [82] Cloud computing On-demand access to shared computing resources and storage for data analysis and collaboration ̵Scalability and cost-effectiveness for implementing circular economy solutions ̵Enables real-time monitoring and decision-making based on cloud-based analytics ̵Facilitates collaboration and data sharing among stakeholders [83] Augmented reality (AR) Overlaying digital information onto the physical environment for enhanced visualization ̵Assistance in waste sorting and recycling processes ̵Real-time guidance for resource optimization and process efficiency ̵Education and training for circular practices and sustainability [84] Robotics and automation Automated systems and robots for improved resource efficiency and waste reduction ̵Efficient material handling and sorting for recycling processes ̵Enhanced precision and accuracy in manufacturing processes for circular products ̵Reduced human error and improved safety in resource management [85] 3D printing Additive manufacturing technology for customized production and reduced material waste ̵On-demand production and localized manufacturing for reduced transportation impacts ̵Optimization of material usage and reduced scrap during manufacturing ̵Enables design for repair and remanufacturing, prolonging product lifespan [86] Figure 5. Digital circular economy eco-system for industrial green synthesis. Consumer Engagement and Education Digital tools help educate and engage consumers in the circular economy. They enable information sharing, product traceability, and consumer involvement in recycling or repurposing initiatives, fostering a culture of sustainability and circularity. AI and machine learning algorithms incorporate for optimizing production processes, waste reduction, and energy efficiency [72], while digital platforms for consumer engagement, such as mobile apps for recycling guidance or sustainability information [73]. Table 2 highlights the digital tools with their roles, functions, and benefits. Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 421 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 6. Role of each SDG’s for green synthesis in circular economy model. 6. Role of SDG’s efforts of circular economy and green synthesis industrial chemistry The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development. The efforts to achieve the SDGs align closely with the principles and goals of the circular economy in the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. The circular economy contributes to several SDGs by promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste and pollution, and promotion sustainable production and consumption patterns. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. The circular economy promotes sustainable production pro- cessses, resource efficiency, and waste reduction, contributing to SDG 12 [87]. By implementing circular practices, such as recycling, reusing, and remanufacturing, the industrial sector can minimize resource extraction and waste generation [88]. Figure 6 shows the role of each SDG’s for green synthesis in the circular economy model. The circular economy promotes energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources, contributing to SDG 7 [87]. Industrial chemistry and environ- mental engineering can leverage circular approaches to optimize energy use, reduce emissions, and transition to clean energy technologies [89]. The circular economy fosters inno- vation, technological advancements, and sustainable industrial practices, supporting SDG 9 [90]. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering play a key role in developing and implementing circular solutions, such as eco-design, green chemistry, and sustainable infrastructure [91]. The circular economy contributes to climate action by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing waste, and promoting sustainable resource management. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can adopt circular practices to mitigate climate change impacts and promote a low-carbon economy [92]. The circular economy helps protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems by reducing pollution, conserving resources, and promoting sustainable land and water management [93]. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can contribute to these goals by implementing circular approaches that minimize environmental impacts and promote biodiversity conservation [94]. The circular economy promotes efficient water use, wastewater treatment, and water resource management, contributing to SDG 6 [93]. Industrial chemistry and environ- mental engineering can implement circular practices that minimize water consumption, recycle water, and improve water quality [94]. The circular economy offers opportunities for job creation, innovation, and sustainable economic growth, supporting SDG 8 [93]. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can drive the transition to a circular economy, generating new green jobs and fostering economic resilience [92]. The circular economy promotes sustainable urbanization, resource efficiency, and waste reduction, aligning with SDG 11 [95]. Industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can contribute to sustainable cities by implementing circular practices in waste management, infrastructure design, and urban planning [91]. The circular economy requires collabo- ration and partnerships across sectors and stakeholders, supporting SDG 17 [96]. Industrial chemistry and environ- mental engineering can collaborate with policymakers, companies, and communities to drive circular initiatives and achieve sustainable development goals [97]. 7. Strategies and Industrial practices efforts for promoting the circular economy The transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy requires the implementation of various strategies and practices across different sectors. This article highlights key areas that contribute to achieving circularity in industrial processes and supply chains. These areas include sustainable material selection, resource efficiency and waste reduction, closing the loop, digitalization and Industry 4.0, policy and regulatory support, collaboration and stakeholder engagement, circular supply chain management, education and capacity building, and policy and regulatory frameworks. Promoting sustainable material selection is crucial in fostering environ- mentally friendly industrial processes. By advocating for the use of renewable and recyclable materials, industries can reduce their reliance on nonrenewable resources and minimize the negative impact on natural ecosystems. Embracing green chemistry principles further minimizes the use of hazardous substances, contributing to a safer and cleaner future. Resource efficiency and waste reduction play a significant role in sustainable industrial practices. By adopting cleaner produc- tion techniques and industrial symbiosis practices, industries can optimize resource use, minimize waste generation, and maximize resource utilization. Integrating waste valorization techniques such as recycling, reprocessing, and energy recovery further contribute to waste reduction and resource maximization. Details of each strategy and practice are given below. 422 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 7. Industrial growth based on green synthesis circular economy model. 7.1. Sustainable material selection Promoting sustainable material selection is essential for fostering environmentally friendly industrial processes. One way to achieve this is by advocating for the use of renewable and recyclable materials [29]. By opting for such materials, industries can reduce their reliance on nonrenewable resources and contribute to the conservation of natural ecosystems. Furthermore, the adoption of principles of green chemistry plays a crucial role in minimizing the use of hazardous subs- tances [5]. This approach focuses on developing and utilizing chemical processes that are less harmful to the environment and human health. By prioritizing green chemistry, industries can mitigate the negative impacts associated with toxic chemicals and contribute to a safer and cleaner future. Another important aspect of sustainable material selection is the implementation of eco-design approaches [97]. This involves considering the entire lifecycle of products, from their creation to their eventual disposal or reuse. By incorporating eco-design principles, industries can ensure that products are designed with recyclability and reusability in mind. This not only reduces waste generation, but also enables the extraction of valuable resources from discarded products, minimizing the need for new raw materials. Sustainable material selection encompasses various strategies that aim to minimize the environmental footprint of industrial processes. Promoting the use of renewable and recyclable materials, adopting green chemistry principles, and implementing eco-design approaches are all crucial steps toward achieving a more sustainable and circular economy. By embracing these practices, industries can contribute to resource conservation, pollution reduction, and overall well- being of the planet. 7.2. Resource efficiency and waste reduction Achieving resource efficiency and waste reduction is crucial for sustainable industrial practices. Industries can optimize resource use and minimize waste generation by implementing cleaner production techniques. These techniques involve adop- ting advanced technologies and efficient processes to reduce resource consumption while maintaining or increasing produc- tivity. By doing so, industries can contribute to environmental preservation, cost-effectiveness, and long-term competiti- veness. Another effective approach to resource efficiency is the adoption of industrial symbiosis practices. This involves the exchange of resources and by-products among different industries [98]. By identifying opportunities for collaboration and resource sharing, industries can minimize waste genera- tion and maximize resource utilization. For example, one industry's by-product can serve as a valuable resource for another industry, reducing the need for virgin materials and promoting a circular economy. Integrating waste valorization techniques is also crucial for waste reduction and resource maximization. Techniques such as recycling, reprocessing, and energy recovery play a significant role in this regard and shown in Figure 7 [98]. Recycling involves collecting and processing waste materials to create new products or raw materials. Reprocessing focuses on recovering valuable components from waste or transforming them into usable materials. Energy recovery harnesses the energy content of waste through methods like incineration or anaerobic digestion [99]. These techniques not only minimize waste sent to landfills but also conserve resources and reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal. Prioritization of resource efficiency and waste reduction is essential for sustainable industrial practices. Implementing cleaner production techniques, adopting industrial symbiosis practices, and integrating waste valorization techniques contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy. By optimizing resource use, minimizing waste generation, and maximizing resource recovery, industries can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and pave the way toward a more sustainable future. 7.3. Closing the loop Closing the loop is a crucial aspect of achieving a circular economy. To accomplish this, various strategies can be emp- loyed. Encouraging product take-back systems and facilitating recycling and remanufacturing processes are effective approaches [100]. By establishing mechanisms for customers to return products at the end of their life cycle, materials can be recovered and reused. This promotes resource conservation and minimizes waste. Additionally, developing innovative Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 423 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 business models, such as product-as-a-service and sharing economy platforms, can contribute to closing the loop [34]. These models prioritize access to products and services rather than ownership, promote sharing, and reduce the overall demand for new products. Lastly, promoting extended producer responsibility and implementing reverse logistics are essential steps [101]. By holding producers accountable for the entire life cycle of their products, including their end-of-life disposal, they are incentivized to design products that are easier to recycle and ensure their proper management. Implementing reverse logistics systems enables the efficient collection and transportation of used products or materials back to manufacturers for recycling or remanufacturing. Together, these measures play a significant role in closing the loop, fostering a more sustainable and circular economy. 7.4. Digitalization and Industry 4.0 Digitalization and Industry 4.0 bring forth significant advancements by harnessing digital technologies such as IoT, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence. These technologies enable industries to optimize resources and improve process efficiency, leading to improved productivity [42]. Digital twins and simulation tools play a vital role in this transformation, allowing businesses to model and optimize production process- ses, thereby reducing waste. Furthermore, block chain techno- logy offers valuable solutions for traceability, transparency, and circular supply chain management. By leveraging the block chain, industries can ensure the authenticity of products, enhance trust among supply chain partners, and promote sustainability [79]. In general, digitalization and Industry 4.0 enable businesses to achieve resource optimization, process efficiency, and simplified supply chain operations [97]. 7.5. Policy and regulatory support & collaboration and stakeholder engagement Policy and Regulatory Support Implementing supportive policies, incentives and regulations to drive circular economy practices [101], encouraging collaboration among stake- holders, and facilitating knowledge exchange through networks and platforms [29,102]. In addition to it, conducting research and development to drive innovation in circular economy technologies and practices [98]. Encouraging collaboration among industry, academia, government, and civil society to foster knowledge sharing, innovation, and implementation of circular economy principles. Engaging stakeholders through multi-stakeholder platforms, partnerships, and dialogues to drive systemic change and collective action [30]. Facilitating cross-sectoral collaboration to identify synergies, exchange best practices, and develop circular economy solutions [103]. 7.6. Circular supply chain management, education and capacity building Promoting education and awareness programs is crucial for enhancing understanding of circular economy concepts and fostering skills for sustainable development. It is essential to incorporate circular economy principles into curricula and training programs for professionals in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. By doing so, we can ensure that future leaders in these fields are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to drive circularity in their industries. Further- more, supporting research and knowledge dissemination on circular economy topics through academic institutions and research centers is essential. This enables the development of innovative solutions and the sharing of best practices for implementing circular economy principles effectively [29,104, 105]. In order to advance circularity in supply chains, it is important to implement circular procurement practices. This involves prioritizing the use of recycled, recyclable, and environmentally friendly materials in the sourcing and production processes. By adopting such practices, we can reduce waste generation and promote the use of sustainable resources. Furthermore, adopting supply chain transparency and traceability tools is crucial to ensure ethical sourcing, sustainable production, and circularity of products. These tools enable companies to monitor and track the origin of materials, their environmental impact, and the conditions under which they are produced. This information empowers consumers and businesses to make informed choices and supports the shift towards more sustainable and circular practices. Moreover, promoting the integration of circular economy principles in logistics and distribution processes is vital. This includes implementing reverse logistics for product recovery and recycling. By establishing efficient systems for collecting, refurbishing and repurposing products at the end of their lifecycle, we can minimize waste and maximize the value of resources [99,106]. 7.7. Policy and regulatory frameworks In order to foster the transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy, various strategies can be implemented. One key aspect is the development of supportive policies, regulations, and incentives that promote the adoption of circular economy practices within the industrial sectors [107]. These measures can help create an enabling environment for businesses to embrace circularity by providing guidance, financial support, and regulatory frameworks that encourage resource efficiency, waste reduction, and integration of circular principles into production and consumption systems. Another effective approach is the establishment of extended producer responsibility frameworks, which shift the burden of product lifecycle management from consumers to manufacturers. By implementing such frameworks, manufacturers are incenti- vized to design products for durability, reparability, and recyclability. This encourages the production of goods that can be easily disassembled, repaired, or recycled, reducing waste generation and extending the lifespan of products [107,108]. Furthermore, it is crucial to encourage the development of circular economy indicators and metrics that can effectively monitor progress and guide policy making [108]. These indica- tors provide valuable insights into the environmental, social, and economic impacts of circular economy initiatives, allowing policymakers to assess the effectiveness of their strategies and make informed decisions. By having reliable data and metrics, policymakers can tailor their approaches, identify areas of improvement, and track the overall transition towards a circular economy. The promotion of supportive policies, the establishment of extended producer responsibility frameworks, and the development of circular economy indicators and metrics are essential elements in advancing the adoption of circular economy practices. By implementing these measures, govern- ments, businesses, and society as a whole can work together to create a more sustainable and resilient future. 8. ESG & Industrial chemistry case studies role for novel circular economy model Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors play a crucial role in shaping and implementing a novel circular economy model. ESG considerations are integral in guiding the principles, strategies, and practices of a circular economy to ensure its sustainability and positive social impact. From an environmental perspective, ESG factors help identify and address the ecological challenges associated with the circular economy. 424 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Table 3. Sustainable ESG Metrices for Industrial Green Synthesis. Sustainability metric Description Mathematical formula Material efficiency Measures the efficiency of resource utilization in production Material Efficiency = (Output Mass / Input Mass) * 100% Energy efficiency Measures the efficiency of energy use in production processes Energy Efficiency = (Output Energy / Input Energy) * 100% Carbon footprint Measures the greenhouse gas emissions associated with a product or process Carbon Footprint = GHG Emissions (CO2e) Water footprint Measures the water consumption and water pollution associated with a product or process Water Footprint = Total Water Consumption or Pollution (liters) Waste generation Measures the amount of waste generated during production processes Waste Generation = Amount of Waste Generated (metric tons) Recycling rate Measures the percentage of materials that are recycled or reused Recycling Rate = (Recycled Materials / Total Materials) * 100% Reutilization rate Measures the percentage of products or components that are reused or repurposed Reutilization Rate = (Reused Products / Total Products) * 100% Life cycle assessment (LCA) Evaluates the environmental impacts of a product or process throughout its life cycle LCA = Sum of impacts across life cycle stages (e.g., extraction, production, use, disposal) Circular economy index Provides an overall measure of the circularity of an industrial system Circular Economy Index = (Value of Circular Activities / Total Economic Value) * 100% ESG frameworks provide a comprehensive approach to assess and mitigate environmental risks and impacts of circular economy practices [109,110]. This includes evaluating the use of resources, energy consumption, waste generation, and pollution. By integrating ESG principles into the circular economy model, businesses and policy makers can prioritize environmental conservation, climate action, and the presser- vation of natural resources. In the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering, several novel circular economy models have emerged, each offering unique approaches to sustainable resource management and waste reduction [111,112]. One such model is the Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C) framework, which focuses on creating a regenerative and waste-free system by designing products and processes that emulate nature’s cycles [113]. The C2C model encompasses key aspects such as material health, material reutilization, renewable energy, water stewardship, and social fairness. By adopting the C2C model, the industrial chemistry and environmental engineering sectors can transition towards a circular economy by reima- gining their products, processes and systems. This model challenges the traditional linear approach of 'take-make- dispose' and emphasizes the importance of product design, material assessment, closed-loop systems, collaboration, and partnerships, as well as certification and standards [114,115]. These elements form a comprehensive framework that enables the integration of sustainable and circular practices throughout the value chain. Another notable circular economy model is industrial symbiosis, which promotes resource optimization and waste reduction through collaboration between industries. By identifying opportunities for waste or by-products from one company to serve as valuable inputs for another, industrial symbiosis creates a closed-loop system that minimizes waste generation and maximizes resource utilization [116,117]. A well-known example is the Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis in Denmark, where multiple companies interconnect their operations to achieve significant resource efficiency gains. Product-as-a-Service (PaaS) is a business model that shifts the focus from product ownership to product usage. By providing products as services, manufacturers retain the responsibility for maintenance, repair, and end-of-life management. This model encourages the design of durable, repairable, and upgradable products, promoting resource efficiency and effective resource recovery [118,119]. Philips Lighting (now Signify) has successfully embraced the PaaS model with its 'Light as a Service' offering, leading to energy savings, improved performance, and material recovery. Drawing inspiration from nature, biomimicry is a circular economy model that emulates natural design principles and processes. By observing and replicating nature's patterns, strategies, and systems, biomimicry enables the development of sustainable and resource-efficient solutions. The Lotus Effect, which inspired the creation of self-cleaning and water-repellent materials, serves as a prime example of how biomimicry can drive innovation across various industries. Collaborative consump- tion, also known as the sharing economy, is a circular economy model that promotes the sharing, renting, and collaborative use of resources [120,121]. By leveraging digital platforms and networks, collaborative consumption optimizes the utilization of underutilized assets and reduces the need for new production, thus minimizing waste. Airbnb exemplifies this model, allowing individuals to rent out their properties, maximizing the use of existing housing stocks and reducing the environmental impact associated with new construction. In industrial ecology, it takes inspiration from natural ecosystems to design industrial systems that mimic nature's interconnectedness and resource efficiency [122]. By fostering collaboration among industries and stakeholders, industrial ecology optimizes resource flow and minimizes environmental impacts. The Kalundborg Eco-Industrial Park in Denmark stands as a prominent example, where multiple companies integrate their operations and create symbiotic relationships to achieve substantial resource conservation and waste reduction. Through the adoption of these novel circular economy models, industrial chemistry and environmental engineering can drive the transition toward a more sustainable and circular future. By embracing principles such as regenerative design, resource optimization, collaborative networks, and nature-inspired solutions, these models offer pathways to achieve a more efficient, resilient, and environmentally friendly industrial sector [123]. Table 3 is the representation of novel circular economy sustainability metrics along with their mathematical formulas in the context of industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. By considering ESG factors in the implementation of circular economy models, the industrial chemistry and environmental engineering sectors can drive positive social change, promote sustainable consumption patterns, and foster inclusive and resilient communities. Environmental factors play a crucial role in the circular economy, with a focus on minimizing environmental impacts and promoting sustainability. In the industrial chemistry and environmental engineering sectors, ESG considerations are integrated into the design and implementation of processes, products, and systems. Circular economy models offer a framework for achieving these goals by prioritizing resource efficiency, waste reduction, and environmental preservation. By adopting circular economy models, these sectors can effectively reduce resource consumption, minimize waste generation, and mitigate environmental pollution. This includes promoting efficient resource use to minimize the extraction and depletion of finite resources, implementing strategies such as recycling and remanufacturing to minimize waste, and adopting Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 425 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 Figure 8. C2C design framework along with industrial symbiosis case studies. cleaner production processes and sustainable chemistry practices to mitigate pollution [37]. Additionally, circular economy models encourage the promotion of ecosystem resilience by emulating nature's regenerative processes through approaches like biomimicry and industrial symbiosis. This involves designing products and processes that mimic natural systems, optimizing resource flows, and fostering collaboration among industries. Lastly, circular economy models encourage sustainable innovation by driving the development of sustainable technologies, materials, and business models. By embracing concepts such as Product-as-a- Service and collaborative consumption, these sectors can promote resource efficiency, encourage product longevity, and foster a more sustainable and circular economy. Social factors play a significant role in the implementation of circular economy models within the industrial chemistry and environmental engineering sectors. These models have a direct impact on workers, local communities, and stakeholders, promoting positive social outcomes. By adopting circular economy initiatives, these sectors can foster various social benefits. i. Job creation: Circular economy models often require innovative technologies, processes, and services, leading to the emergence of new industries and job opportunities as shown in Figure 8 [118,119]. This contributes to economic growth and provides employment oppor- tunities for individuals across different skill levels. ii. Community engagement: Circular economy initiatives encourage collaboration and partnerships among various stakeholders, including local communities, businesses, and governments. This engagement fosters social cohesion, inclusivity, and active participation in decision- making processes. iii. Sustainable consumption: Circular economy models promote a shift in consumer behavior towards sustain- nable and responsible consumption practices. This includes raising awareness about the importance of resource conservation, supporting local and sustainable supply chains, and encouraging the use of eco-friendly products. These efforts contribute to a more sustainable society and empower consumers to make environ- mentally conscious choices. iv. Social equity and inclusion: Circular economy models emphasize fair treatment of workers and aim to create products and systems that contribute to the well-being of communities. They prioritize social equity, ensuring that workers are provided with safe and fair working conditions throughout the supply chain [58]. Governance factors play a crucial role in facilitating the successful implementation of circular economy models in industrial chemistry and environmental engineering. They focus on transparent and accountable management, including the establishment of regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagement, and reporting and disclosure mechanisms. Governments and regulatory bodies have the responsibility to develop supportive policies, regulations, and incentives that promote circular economy practices, such as extended producer responsibility programs and sustainable procure- ment practices [124-126]. The effective implementation of circular economy models heavily relies on the integration of robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks. Engaging stake- holders from diverse sectors, including government agencies, businesses, academia, and civil society, is essential to ensure their active participation and collaboration throughout the process. Transparency and accountability, crucial aspects of ESG, can be achieved through comprehensive reporting and disclosure of circular economy initiatives, performance, and impacts. This involves tracking and sharing ESG metrics and process updates. By embracing governance principles, organi- za-tions can proficiently manage and implement circular economy models, thus contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable and circular system, with ESG and Cradle-to- Cradle (C2C) principles at the forefront. Driving the transition to a circular economy requires dedicated efforts such as sustainable material selection, resource efficiency, closing the loop, digitalization, and policy support. The integration of ESG factors ensures the consideration of environmental, social, and governance aspects in circular economy initiatives, fostering sustainability and positive societal impact. Collaborative endeavors, education and capacity building, circular supply chain management, and supportive policy and regulatory frameworks are vital for the successful implementation of circular economy practices. By embracing circularity and incorporating circular economy principles into industrial processes, the sectors of industrial chemistry and environ- mental engineering can make significant contributions to resource conservation, pollution reduction, and the overall well-being of the planet. This transition also holds the potential for economic growth and job creation. It is imperative that government, businesses, academia, and civil society unite in collective action to create a more sustainable and resilient future. The integration of effective ESG and C2C frameworks, coupled with collaborative efforts and supportive policies, will pave the way towards a circular economy that promotes sustainability, resource efficiency, and well-being of both present and future generations. 9. Conclusion The circular economy represents a transformative approach in the fields of industrial chemistry and environ- mental engineering, with a strong focus on resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability. Key principles such as resource efficiency, waste valorization, recycling, sustainable product design, and industrial symbiosis are the driving forces behind the shift towards a more environmentally friendly industrial sector. Through the implementation of cleaner production methods, optimization of material flows, and enhanced collaboration between industries, the circular economy has the potential to significantly minimize environ- mental impacts and conserve natural resources. Crucially, green synthesis principles are vital to promote circularity within chemical processes by reducing the use of hazardous substances, minimizing waste generation, and improving resource efficiency. Mostly digital tools including data analytics, modeling, and monitoring systems play a pivotal role in facilitating informed decision-making, process optimization, and effective management of material flows, thereby 426 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 supporting the transition towards a circular economy. The potential of the circular economy can be fully unlock, and collaboration and engagement among diverse stakeholders are paramount. Governments, regulatory bodies, industries, researchers, and consumers must work collectively to develop comprehensive circular economy strategies, implement sustainable practices, and address the challenges associated with transitioning towards circularity. Embracing circularity and adhering to the principles of the circular economy, the industrial chemistry and environmental engineering sectors can make substantial contributions to a more sustainable and prosperous future. This aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promotes respon- sible production and consumption patterns. The circular economy offers a promising approach to tackle global challenges and achieve sustainable development goals across a range of areas, including responsible consumption and production, clean energy, innovation and sustainable industrial practices, climate action, protection of ecosystems, water resource management, job creation and economic growth, sustainable urbanization, as well as collaboration and partner- ships. By actively embracing the circular economy, these fields can drive positive change and contribute to the attainment of a more sustainable and prosperous future. Disclosure statement Conflict of interest: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. Ethical approval: All ethical guidelines have been adhered. CRediT authorship contribution statement Conceptualization: Salaha Saeed, Muhammad Yousaf Arshad; Methodology: Muhammad Yousaf Arshad, Anam Suhail Ahmed; Software: Muhammad Yousaf Arshad; Validation: Salaha Saeed, Muhammad Yousaf Arshad; Resources: Salaha Saeed, Muhammad Yousaf Arshad; Writing - Original Draft: Salaha Saeed, Muhammad Yousaf Arshad, Anam Suhail Ahmed; Writing - Review and Editing: Salaha Saeed, Muhammad Yousaf Arshad; Visualization: Muhammad Yousaf Arshad, Anam Suhail Ahmed; Supervision: Muhammad Yousaf Arshad; Project Administration: Muhammad Yousaf Arshad. ORCID and Email Muhammad Yousaf Arshad yousaf.arshad96@yahoo.com https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2081-0057 Salaha Saeed s.saeed.uet@gmail.com https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4892-0581 Anam Suhail Ahmed anam.ahmed@halliburton.com https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5481-2539 References [1]. Geissdoerfer, M.; Savaget, P.; Bocken, N. M. P.; Hultink, E. J. The Circular Economy – A new sustainability paradigm? J. Clean. Prod. 2017, 143, 757–768. [2]. Patil, T.; Rebaioli, L.; Fassi, I. Cyber-physical systems for end-of-life management of printed circuit boards and mechatronics products in home automation: A review. Sustain. Mater. Technol. 2022, 32, e00422. [3]. Telenko, C.; O’Rourke, J. M.; Conner Seepersad, C.; Webber, M. E. A compilation of design for environment guidelines. J. Mech. Des. N. Y. 2016, 138, 031102. [4]. Chertow, M. R. “Uncovering” industrial symbiosis. J. Ind. Ecol. 2008, 11, 11–30. [5]. Anastas, P. T.; Warner, J. C. Green Chemistry: Theory and practice; Oxford University Press: London, England, 1998. [6]. Guinee, J. B. Handbook on life cycle assessment operational guide to the ISO standards. Int. J. Life Cycle Assess. 2002, 7. [7]. Bonoli, A.; Zanni, S.; Serrano-Bernardo, F. Sustainability in building and construction within the framework of circular cities and European New Green Deal. The contribution of concrete recycling. Sustainability 2021, 13, 2139. [8]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Hayajneh, M. T. A hierarchy weighting preferences model to optimise green composite characteristics for better sustainable bio-products. Int. J. Sustain. Eng. 2021, 14, 1043–1048. [9]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Alaaeddin, M. H.; El-Shekeil, Y. A. Thermal stability and performance trends of sustainable lignocellulosic olive / low density polyethylene biocomposites for better environmental green materials. Eng. Solid Mech. 2021, 9, 439–448. [10]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Hayajneh, M. T.; Hoque, M. E. Structural integrity and performance investigations of a novel chemically treated cellulosic paper corn/polyester sustainable biocomposites. Funct. Compos. Struct. 2023, 5, 015007. [11]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Omari, M. A.; Al-Ghraibah, A. Predicting the potential of biomass-based composites for sustainable automotive industry using a decision-making model. In Lignocellulosic Fibre and Biomass-Based Composite Materials; Elsevier, 2017; pp. 27–43. [12]. Samad, M. A.; Sinha, S. K. Mechanical, thermal and tribological characterization of a UHMWPE film reinforced with carbon nanotubes coated on steel. Tribol. Int. 2011, 44, 1932–1941. [13]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, S. M.; Ishak, M. R.; Nuraini, A. A. A model for evaluating and determining the most appropriate polymer matrix type for natural fiber composites. Int. J. Polym. Anal. Charact. 2015, 20, 191–205. [14]. Fares, O.; AL-Oqla, F.; Hayajneh, M. Revealing the intrinsic dielectric properties of mediterranean green fiber composites for sustainable functional products. J. Ind. Text. 2022, 51, 7732S-7754S. [15]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Hayajneh, M. T.; Al-Shrida, M. M. Mechanical performance, thermal stability and morphological analysis of date palm fiber reinforced polypropylene composites toward functional bio-products. Cellulose 2022, 29, 3293–3309. [16]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Hayajneh, M. T. Stress failure interface of cellulosic composite beam for more reliable industrial design. Int. J. Interact. Des. Manuf. (IJIDeM) 2022, 16, 1727–1738. [17]. Al-Jarrah, R.; AL-Oqla, F. M. A novel integrated BPNN/SNN artificial neural network for predicting the mechanical performance of green fibers for better composite manufacturing. Compos. Struct. 2022, 289, 115475. [18]. AL-Oqla, F. M. Biomaterial hierarchy selection framework under uncertainty for more reliable sustainable green products. JOM (1989) 2023, 75, 2187–2198. [19]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, S. M.; Ishak, M. R.; Nuraini, A. A. Predicting the potential of agro waste fibers for sustainable automotive industry using a decision making model. Comput. Electron. Agric. 2015, 113, 116–127. [20]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, S. M. Morphological study and performance deterioration of sustainable lignocellulosic corn fiber bio-composites. J. Mater. Cycles Waste Manag. 2023, 25, 337–345. [21]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, S. M.; Ishak, M. R.; Nuraini, A. A. A novel evaluation tool for enhancing the selection of natural fibers for polymeric composites based on fiber moisture content criterion. Bioresources 2015, 10, 299–312. [22]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, S. M.; Ishak, M. R.; Nuraini, A. A. A decision- making model for selecting the most appropriate natural fiber – Polypropylene-based composites for automotive applications. J. Compos. Mater. 2016, 50, 543–556. [23]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, M. S.; Ishak, M. R.; Abdul Aziz, N. Combined multi-criteria evaluation stage technique as an Agro waste evaluation indicator for polymeric composites: Date palm fibers as a case study. Bioresources 2014, 9, 4608–4621. [24]. AL-Oqla, F. M.; Sapuan, S. M.; Jawaid, M. Integrated Mechanical- Economic–Environmental Quality of Performance for Natural Fibers for Polymeric-Based Composite Materials. Journal of Natural Fibers 2016, 13, 651–659. [25]. Foundation, E. M. https://www.werktrends.nl/app/uploads/2015/ 06/Rapport_McKinsey-Towards_A_Circular_Economy.pdf (accessed January 20, 2023). [26]. AL-Oqla, F. M. Manufacturing and delamination factor optimization of cellulosic paper/epoxy composites towards proper design for sustainability. Int. J. Interact. Des. Manuf. (IJIDeM) 2023, 17, 765–773. [27]. Willskytt, S. Design of consumables in a resource-efficient economy— A literature review. Sustainability 2021, 13, 1036. [28]. Hochschorner, E.; Finnveden, G. Evaluation of two simplified Life Cycle assessment methods. Int. J. Life Cycle Assess. 2003, 8, 119–128. [29]. Ghisellini, P.; Cialani, C.; Ulgiati, S. A review on circular economy: the expected transition to a balanced interplay of environmental and economic systems. J. Clean. Prod. 2016, 114, 11–32. [30]. Bocken, N. M. P.; de Pauw, I.; Bakker, C.; van der Grinten, B. Product design and business model strategies for a circular economy. J. Ind. Prod. Eng. 2016, 33, 308–320. [31]. Cucciniello, R.; Cespi, D. Recycling within the chemical industry: The circular economy era. Recycling 2018, 3, 22. [32]. Purchase, C. K.; Al Zulayq, D. M.; O’Brien, B. T.; Kowalewski, M. J.; Berenjian, A.; Tarighaleslami, A. H.; Seifan, M. Circular Economy of construction and demolition waste: A literature review on lessons, challenges, and benefits. Materials (Basel) 2021, 15, 76. mailto:yousaf.arshad96@yahoo.com https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2081-0057 mailto:s.saeed.uet@gmail.com https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4892-0581 mailto:anam.ahmed@halliburton.com https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5481-2539 https://www.werktrends.nl/app/uploads/2015/%2006/Rapport_McKinsey-Towards_A_Circular_Economy.pdf https://www.werktrends.nl/app/uploads/2015/%2006/Rapport_McKinsey-Towards_A_Circular_Economy.pdf Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 427 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 [33]. Liu, J.; Feng, Y.; Zhu, Q.; Sarkis, J. Green supply chain management and the circular economy: Reviewing theory for advancement of both fields. Int. J. Phys. Distrib. Logist. Manag. 2018, 48, 794–817. [34]. Geissdoerfer, M.; Morioka, S. N.; de Carvalho, M. M.; Evans, S. Business models and supply chains for the circular economy. J. Clean. Prod. 2018, 190, 712–721. [35]. Geng, Y.; Doberstein, B. Developing the circular economy in China: Challenges and opportunities for achieving “leapfrog development.” Int. J. Sustainable Dev. World Ecol. 2008, 15, 231–239. [36]. Tuladhar, A.; Iatridis, K.; Dimov, D. History and evolution of the circular economy and circular economy business models. In Circular Economy and Sustainability; Elsevier, 2022; pp. 87–106. [37]. Kirchherr, J.; Reike, D.; Hekkert, M. Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions. Resour. Conserv. Recycl. 2017, 127, 221–232. [38]. Sustainable solutions: Developing products and services for the future; Charter, M.; Tischner, U., Eds.; Routledge, 2017. [39]. Bocken, N.; Ritala, P. Six ways to build circular business models. J. Bus. Strategy 2022, 43, 184–192. [40]. Jonck, A. V.; Ribeiro, J. M. P.; Silva, S. A. da; Anhalt, T. C.; Guerra, J. B. S. O. de A. Circular Economy: a review. In Estado, sociedade e sustentabilidade: debates interdisciplinares X; Ed. Unisul, 2018; pp. 24– 38. [41]. Pohlmann, L. D. Biomimicry-innovations inspired by nature by Janine M. benyus US-NY William morrow. [hardback 1997, paperback 2002] (ISBN: 0-688-10699-9). Insight 2016, 19, 78–78. [42]. Chertow, M. R. Industrial symbiosis: Literature and taxonomy. Annu. Rev. Energy Environ. 2000, 25, 313–337. [43]. Herczeg, G.; Akkerman, R.; Hauschild, M. Z. Supply chain collaboration in industrial symbiosis networks. J. Clean. Prod. 2018, 171, 1058– 1067. [44]. Reim, W.; Parida, V.; Örtqvist, D. Product–Service Systems (PSS) business models and tactics – a systematic literature review. J. Clean. Prod. 2015, 97, 61–75. [45]. Bocken, N.; Strupeit, L.; Whalen, K.; Nußholz, J. A review and evaluation of circular business model innovation tools. Sustainability 2019, 11, 2210. [46]. De Giovanni, P.; Esposito Vinzi, V. The benefits of a monitoring strategy for firms subject to the Emissions Trading System. Transp. Res. D Transp. Environ. 2014, 33, 220–233. [47]. Anastas, P. T.; Beach, E. S. Green chemistry: the emergence of a transformative framework. Green Chem. Lett. Rev. 2007, 1, 9–24. [48]. Sheldon, R. A. Green and sustainable manufacture of chemicals from biomass: state of the art. Green Chem. 2014, 16, 950–963. [49]. Polshettiwar, V.; Varma, R. S. Green chemistry by nano-catalysis. Green Chem. 2010, 12, 743–754. [50]. Gupta, M. N.; Kaloti, M.; Kapoor, M.; Solanki, K. Nanomaterials as matrices for enzyme immobilization. Artif. Cells Blood Substit. Immobil. Biotechnol. 2011, 39, 98–109. [51]. Life cycle assessment handbook: A guide for environmentally sustainable products; Curran, M. A., Ed.; John Wiley & Sons: Nashville, TN, 2012. [52]. Rodrigues, L. A.; Pereira, C. V.; Leonardo, I. C.; Fernández, N.; Gaspar, F. B.; Silva, J. M.; Reis, R. L.; Duarte, A. R. C.; Paiva, A.; Matias, A. A. Terpene-based natural deep eutectic systems as efficient solvents to recover astaxanthin from brown crab shell residues. ACS Sustain. Chem. Eng. 2020, 8, 2246–2259. [53]. Gupta, M. N.; Raghava, S. Relevance of chemistry to white biotechnology. Chem. Cent. J. 2007, 1. [54]. Belgacem, M. N.; Gandini, A. Monomers, polymers and composites from renewable resources; Elsevier, 2011. [55]. Anastas, P. T.; Heine, L. G.; Williamson, T. C. Green chemical syntheses and processes: Introduction. In ACS Symposium Series; American Chemical Society: Washington, DC, 2000; pp. 1–6. [56]. Luque, R.; Clark, J. Handbook of biofuels production: Processes and technologies; Elsevier, 2010. [57]. Hussain, I.; Singh, N. B.; Singh, A.; Singh, H.; Singh, S. C. Green synthesis of nanoparticles and its potential application. Biotechnol. Lett. 2016, 38, 545–560. [58]. Bechtold, T.; Mussak, R. Handbook of Natural Colorants; John Wiley & Sons, 2009. [59]. Sharma, V. K.; Jinadatha, C.; Lichtfouse, E. Environmental chemistry is most relevant to study coronavirus pandemics. Environ. Chem. Lett. 2020, 18, 993–996. [60]. Roschangar, F.; Colberg, J.; Dunn, P. J.; Gallou, F.; Hayler, J. D.; Koenig, S. G.; Kopach, M. E.; Leahy, D. K.; Mergelsberg, I.; Tucker, J. L.; Sheldon, R. A.; Senanayake, C. H. A deeper shade of green: inspiring sustainable drug manufacturing. Green Chem. 2017, 19, 281–285. [61]. Pacheco-Torgal, F.; Tam, V.; Labrincha, J.; Ding, Y.; de Brito, J. Handbook of recycled concrete and demolition waste; Elsevier, 2013. [62]. Fan, Z.; Zhang, L.; Baumann, D.; Mei, L.; Yao, Y.; Duan, X.; Shi, Y.; Huang, J.; Huang, Y.; Duan, X. In situ transmission electron microscopy for energy materials and devices. Adv. Mater. 2019, 31, 1900608. [63]. Fröhlich-Nowoisky, J.; Kampf, C. J.; Weber, B.; Huffman, J. A.; Pöhlker, C.; Andreae, M. O.; Lang-Yona, N.; Burrows, S. M.; Gunthe, S. S.; Elbert, W.; Su, H.; Hoor, P.; Thines, E.; Hoffmann, T.; Després, V. R.; Pöschl, U. Bioaerosols in the Earth system: Climate, health, and ecosystem interactions. Atmos. Res. 2016, 182, 346–376. [64]. Agapios, A.; Andreas, V.; Marinos, S.; Katerina, M.; Antonis, Z. A. Waste aroma profile in the framework of food waste management through household composting. J. Clean. Prod. 2020, 257, 120340. [65]. Chen, Y.-G.; He, Y.; Ye, W.-M.; Jia, L.-Y. Competitive adsorption characteristics of Na(I)/Cr(III) and Cu(II)/Cr(III) on GMZ bentonite in their binary solution. J. Ind. Eng. Chem. 2015, 26, 335–339. [66]. Mammola, S.; Meierhofer, M. B.; Borges, P. A. V.; Colado, R.; Culver, D. C.; Deharveng, L.; Delić, T.; Di Lorenzo, T.; Dražina, T.; Ferreira, R. L.; Fiasca, B.; Fišer, C.; Galassi, D. M. P.; Garzoli, L.; Gerovasileiou, V.; Griebler, C.; Halse, S.; Howarth, F. G.; Isaia, M.; Johnson, J. S.; Komerički, A.; Martínez, A.; Milano, F.; Moldovan, O. T.; Nanni, V.; Nicolosi, G.; Niemiller, M. L.; Pallarés, S.; Pavlek, M.; Piano, E.; Pipan, T.; Sanchez- Fernandez, D.; Santangeli, A.; Schmidt, S. I.; Wynne, J. J.; Zagmajster, M.; Zakšek, V.; Cardoso, P. Towards evidence-based conservation of subterranean ecosystems. Biol. Rev. Camb. Philos. Soc. 2022, 97, 1476– 1510. [67]. Chang, F.; Zhang, X.; Zhan, G.; Duan, Y.; Zhang, S. Review of methods for sustainability assessment of chemical engineering processes. Ind. Eng. Chem. Res. 2021, 60, 52–66. [68]. Jamwal, A.; Agrawal, R.; Sharma, M. A framework to overcome blockchain enabled sustainable manufacturing issues through circular economy and industry 4.0 measures. Int. J. Math. Eng. Manag. Sci. 2022, 7, 764–790. [69]. United Nations Environment Programme; Andrews, E. S. Guidelines for Social Life Cycle Assessment of products: Social and Socio-economic LCA Guidelines complementing environmental LCA and life cycle costing, contributing to the full assessment of goods and services within the context of sustainable development; UNEP/Earthprint, 2009. [70]. Schwanholz, J.; Leipold, S. Sharing for a circular economy? an analysis of digital sharing platforms’ principles and business models. J. Clean. Prod. 2020, 269, 122327. [71]. Thoben, K.-D.; BIBA - Bremer Institut für Produktion und Logistik GmbH, the University of Bremen; Wiesner, S.; Wuest, T.; Faculty of Production Engineering, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany; Industrial and Management Systems Engineering, “Industrie 4.0” and smart manufacturing – A review of research issues and application examples. Int. J. Autom. Technol. 2017, 11, 4–16. [72]. Danish, M. S. S. AI and expert insights for sustainable energy future. Energies 2023, 16, 3309. [73]. Schumacher, K. A.; Forster, A. L. Textiles in a circular economy: An assessment of the current landscape, challenges, and opportunities in the United States. Front. Sustain. 2022, 3, 146. [74]. Díaz-Sainz, G.; Alvarez-Guerra, M.; Irabien, A. Continuous electrochemical reduction of CO2 to formate: Comparative study of the influence of the electrode configuration with Sn and Bi-based electrocatalysts. Molecules 2020, 25, 4457. [75]. Vadgama, N.; Tasca, P. An analysis of blockchain adoption in supply chains between 2010 and 2020. Front. Blockchain 2021, 4, 610476. [76]. Ocelík, V.; Kolk, A.; Ciulli, F. Multinational enterprises, Industry 4.0 and sustainability: A multidisciplinary review and research agenda. J. Clean. Prod. 2023, 413, 137434. [77]. Raja, S. N.; Carr, D. B.; Cohen, M.; Finnerup, N. B.; Flor, H.; Gibson, S.; Keefe, F. J.; Mogil, J. S.; Ringkamp, M.; Sluka, K. A.; Song, X.-J.; Stevens, B.; Sullivan, M. D.; Tutelman, P. R.; Ushida, T.; Vader, K. The revised International Association for the Study of Pain definition of pain: concepts, challenges, and compromises. Pain 2020, 161, 1976–1982. [78]. Na, H.-M.; Sun, J.; Qiu, Z.; Yuan, Y.; Du, T. Optimization of energy efficiency, energy consumption and co 2 emission in typical iron and steel manufacturing process. SSRN Electron. J. 2021. [79]. Mujahid Ghouri, A.; Mani, V.; Jiao, Z.; Venkatesh, V. G.; Shi, Y.; Kamble, S. S. An empirical study of real-time information-receiving using industry 4.0 technologies in downstream operations. Technol. Forecast. Soc. Change 2021, 165, 120551. [80]. Gejo-García, J.; Reschke, J.; Gallego-García, S.; García-García, M. Development of a system dynamics simulation for assessing manufacturing systems based on the digital twin concept. Appl. Sci. (Basel) 2022, 12, 2095. [81]. Wang, W. Y. C.; Wang, Y. Analytics in the era of big data: The digital transformations and value creation in industrial marketing. Ind. Mark. Manag. 2020, 86, 12–15. [82]. Nascimento, A. S.; Fagundes, C. V.; Mendes, F. A. dos S.; Leal, J. C. Effectiveness of virtual reality rehabilitation in persons with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Mult. Scler. Relat. Disord. 2021, 54, 103128. [83]. Mishra, K. N.; Chakraborty, C. A novel approach toward enhancing the quality of life in smart cities using clouds and IoT-based technologies. In Internet of Things; Springer International Publishing: Cham, 2020; pp. 19–35. [84]. Wedel, M.; Bigné, E.; Zhang, J. Virtual and augmented reality: Advancing research in consumer marketing. Int. J. Res. Mark. 2020, 37, 443–465. 428 Saeed et al. / European Journal of Chemistry 14 (3) (2023) 414-428 2023 – European Journal of Chemistry – CC BY NC – DOI: 10.5155/eurjchem.14.3.414-428.2452 [85]. Borhade, A. P.; Patil, A. N.; Patil, S. K. Automatic wall painting robot automatic wall painting robot 2019. [86]. Tao, Z.; Ahn, H.-J.; Lian, C.; Lee, K.-H.; Lee, C.-H. Design and optimization of prosthetic foot by using polylactic acid 3D printing. J. Mech. Sci. Technol. 2017, 31, 2393–2398. [87]. Conca, K. An unfinished foundation: The united nations and global environmental governance; Oxford University Press, 2015. [88]. Belmonte-Ureña, L. J.; Plaza-Úbeda, J. A.; Vazquez-Brust, D.; Yakovleva, N. Circular economy, degrowth and green growth as pathways for research on sustainable development goals: A global analysis and future agenda. Ecol. Econ. 2021, 185, 107050. [89]. Tanveer, M.; Khan, S. A. R.; Umar, M.; Yu, Z.; Sajid, M. J.; Haq, I. U. Waste management and green technology: future trends in circular economy leading towards environmental sustainability. Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res. Int. 2022, 29, 80161–80178. [90]. World Water Assessment Programme (United Nations) Water for a sustainable world: The United Nations World Water Development Report 2015; UNESCO, 2015. [91]. Rahimi, A.; Yazdanian, N.; Mirarab Baygi, S. A.; Arya, K. Identifying and analyzing the importance-performance of factors affecting the development of green financing based on the role of the banking industry in Iran for the transition to a circular economy. International Journal of Finance & Managerial Accounting 2023, 8, 187–202. [92]. Heras-Saizarbitoria, I.; Boiral, O.; Testa, F. Circular economy at the company level: An empirical study based on sustainability reports. Sustain. Dev. 2023, https://doi.org/10.1002/sd.2507 [93]. Eya, A. M.; Sinniah, G. K.; Junaidu, A. M.; Zubairu, M. Comparing environmental management and cities sustainability as a basis for sustainable development in Nigeria. Plan. Malays. J. 2022, 20. [94]. Mainardis, M.; Cecconet, D.; Moretti, A.; Callegari, A.; Goi, D.; Freguia, S.; Capodaglio, A. G. Wastewater fertigation in agriculture: Issues and opportunities for improved water management and circular economy. Environ. Pollut. 2022, 296, 118755. [95]. Weiland, S.; Hickmann, T.; Lederer, M.; Marquardt, J.; Schwindenhammer, S. The 2030 agenda for sustainable development: Transformative change through the Sustainable Development Goals? Polit. Gov. 2021, 9, 90–95. [96]. Lee, B. X.; Kjaerulf, F.; Turner, S.; Cohen, L.; Donnelly, P. D.; Muggah, R.; Davis, R.; Realini, A.; Kieselbach, B.; MacGregor, L. S.; Waller, I.; Gordon, R.; Moloney-Kitts, M.; Lee, G.; Gilligan, J. Transforming our world: Implementing the 2030 agenda through sustainable development goal indicators. J. Public Health Policy 2016, 37, 13–31. [97]. Dumée, L. F. Circular materials and circular design—review on challenges towards sustainable manufacturing and recycling. Circ. Econ. Sustain. 2022, 2, 9–23. [98]. Pomykała, R.; Tora, B. Circular economy in mineral processing. E3S Web Conf. 2017, 18, 01024. [99]. Lahane, S.; Kant, R.; Shankar, R. Circular supply chain management: A state-of-art review and future opportunities. J. Clean. Prod. 2020, 258, 120859. [100]. Smol, M.; Marcinek, P.; Duda, J.; Szołdrowska, D. Importance of sustainable mineral resource management in implementing the circular economy (CE) model and the European Green Deal strategy. Resources 2020, 9, 55. [101]. Castillo-Díaz, F. J.; Belmonte-Ureña, L. J.; Camacho-Ferre, F.; Tello- Marquina, J. C. The management of agriculture plastic waste in the framework of circular economy. Case of the Almeria greenhouse (Spain). Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 12042. [102]. Geissdoerfer, M.; Vladimirova, D.; Evans, S. Sustainable business model innovation: A review. J. Clean. Prod. 2018, 198, 401–416. [103]. Marrucci, L.; Daddi, T.; Iraldo, F. The integration of circular economy with sustainable consumption and production tools: Systematic review and future research agenda. J. Clean. Prod. 2019, 240, 118268. [104]. Lozano, R.; Lozano, F. J.; Mulder, K.; Huisingh, D.; Waas, T. Advancing Higher Education for Sustainable Development: international insights and critical reflections. J. Clean. Prod. 2013, 48, 3–9. [105]. Kofos, A.; Ubacht, J.; Rukanova, B.; Korevaar, G.; Kouwenhoven, N.; Tan, Y.-H. Circular economy visibility evaluation framework. Journal of Responsible Technology 2022, 10, 100026. [106]. Singh, S.; Babbitt, C.; Gaustad, G.; Eckelman, M. J.; Gregory, J.; Ryen, E.; Mathur, N.; Stevens, M. C.; Parvatker, A.; Buch, R.; Marseille, A.; Seager, T. Thematic exploration of sectoral and cross-cutting challenges to circular economy implementation. Clean Technol. Environ. Policy 2021, 23, 915–936. [107]. Desha, C.; Hargroves, K. A peaking and tailing approach to education and curriculum renewal for sustainable development. Sustainability 2014, 6, 4181–4199. [108]. Velasco-Muñoz, J. F.; Mendoza, J. M. F.; Aznar-Sánchez, J. A.; Gallego- Schmid, A. Circular economy implementation in the agricultural sector: Definition, strategies and indicators. Resour. Conserv. Recycl. 2021, 170, 105618. [109]. Saleem, F.; Abbas, A.; Rehman, A.; Khoja, A. H.; Naqvi, S. R.; Arshad, M. Y.; Zhang, K.; Harvey, A. Decomposition of benzene as a biomass gasification tar in CH4 carrier gas using non-thermal plasma: Parametric and kinetic study. J. Energy Inst. 2022, 102, 190–195. [110]. Klancko, R. J. A Handbook of Industrial Ecology. Robert U. Ayres and Leslie W. Ayres, eds. 2002. Edward Elgar Publishing, Northampton, MA. 680 pp. $285 hardcover. Environ. Pract. 2003, 5, 183–184. [111]. Rojanakit, P.; Torres de Oliveira, R.; Dulleck, U. The sharing economy: A critical review and research agenda. J. Bus. Res. 2022, 139, 1317– 1334. [112]. Arshad, M. Y.; Rashid, A.; Mahmood, F.; Saeed, S.; Ahmed, A. S. Metal(II) triazole complexes: Synthesis, biological evaluation, and analytical characterization using machine learning-based validation. Eur. J. Chem. 2023, 14, 155–164. [113]. Lestari, D. Biomimicry learning as inspiration for Product Design innovation in industrial revolution 4.0. Int. J. Creat. Arts Stud. 2020, 7, 1–18. [114]. Padró, J.-C.; Cardozo, J.; Montero, P.; Ruiz-Carulla, R.; Alcañiz, J. M.; Serra, D.; Carabassa, V. Drone-based identification of erosive processes in open-pit mining restored areas. Land (Basel) 2022, 11, 212. [115]. Gul, H.; Arshad, M. Y.; Tahir, M. W., Production of H2 via sorption enhanced auto-thermal reforming for small scale Applications-A process modeling and machine learning study. Intern. J. Hydrogen Energy 2023, 48 (34), 12622–12635. https://doi.org/10.1016/ j.ijhydene.2022.12.217 [116]. Abreu, M. C. S. de; Ceglia, D. On the implementation of a circular economy: The role of institutional capacity-building through industrial symbiosis. Resour. Conserv. Recycl. 2018, 138, 99–109. [117]. Saeed, M. A.; Niedzwiecki, L.; Arshad, M. Y.; Skrinsky, J.; Andrews, G. E.; Phylaktou, H. N. Combustion and explosion characteristics of pulverised wood, valorized with mild pyrolysis in pilot scale installation, using the modified ISO 1 m3 dust explosion vessel. Appl. Sci. (Basel) 2022, 12, 12928. [118]. Rafique, M. A.; Kiran, S.; Ashraf, A.; Mukhtar, N.; Rizwan, S.; Ashraf, M.; Arshad, M. Y. Effective removal of Direct Orange 26 dye using copper nanoparticles synthesized from Tilapia fish scales. Glob. NEST J. 2022, 24, 311–317. [119]. Peterson, M. Cradle to cradle: Remaking the way we make things. J. Macromarketing 2004, 24, 78–79. [120]. Arshad, Y. M.; Rashid, A.; Gul, H.; Ahmad, A. S.; Jabbar, F. Optimization of acid-assisted extraction of pectin from banana (Musa Acuminata) peels by central composite design. Glob. NEST J. 2022, 24, 752–756. [121]. Sultana, S.; Zulkifli, N.; Zainal, D. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) and investment decision in Bangladesh. Sustainability 2018, 10, 1831. [122]. Arshad, M. Y.; Azam, M. Environmental friendly specialty chemical plants for developing world. In A roadmap for economic development and sustainability with waste reduction; Imran, S., Ed.; 2021; pp. 293, https://conferences.uet.edu.pk/icewe/2021/final-proceedings/. [123]. Rafique, M. A.; Kiran, S.; Jamal, A.; Anjum, M. N.; Jalal, F.; Munir, B.; Hafiz, I.; Noureen, F.; Ajmal, S.; Ahmad, W.; Arshad, M. Y. Green synthesis of copper nanoparticles using Allium cepa (onion) peels for removal of Disperse Yellow 3 dye. Desalin. Water Treat. 2022, 272, 259–265. [124]. Stahel, W. R. The circular economy. Nature 2016, 531, 435–438. [125]. Saleem, F.; Abbas, A.; Rehman, A.; Khoja, A. H.; Naqvi, S. R.; Arshad, M. Y.; Zhang, K.; Harvey, A. Decomposition of benzene as a biomass gasification tar in CH4 carrier gas using non-thermal plasma: Parametric and kinetic study. J. Energy Inst. 2022, 102, 190–195. [126]. Arshad, M. Y. Integrating circular economy, SBTI, digital LCA, and ESG benchmarks for sustainable textile dyeing: A critical review of industrial textile practices. Glob. NEST J. 2023, https://doi.org/10.30955/gnj.005145. Copyright © 2023 by Authors. This work is published and licensed by Atlanta Publishing House LLC, Atlanta, GA, USA. The full terms of this license are available at http://www.eurjchem.com/index.php/eurjchem/pages/view/terms and incorporate the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial (CC BY NC) (International, v4.0) License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0). By accessing the work, you hereby accept the Terms. This is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the CC BY NC License, which permits unrestricted non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited without any further permission from Atlanta Publishing House LLC (European Journal of Chemistry). No use, distribution, or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms. Permissions for commercial use of this work beyond the scope of the License (http://www.eurjchem.com/index.php/eurjchem/pages/view/terms) are administered by Atlanta Publishing House LLC (European Journal of Chemistry). https://doi.org/10.1002/sd.2507 https://doi.org/10.1016/%20j.ijhydene.2022.12.217 https://doi.org/10.1016/%20j.ijhydene.2022.12.217 https://conferences.uet.edu.pk/icewe/2021/final-proceedings/ https://doi.org/10.30955/gnj.005145 http://www.eurjchem.com/index.php/eurjchem/pages/view/terms http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 http://www.eurjchem.com/index.php/eurjchem/pages/view/terms 1. Introduction 2. Background 3. Circular economy methods 4. Industrial Green synthesis approaches and role of green synthesis for circular economy 5. Role of computational chemistry digital tools for promoting circular economy 6. Role of SDG’s efforts of circular economy and green synthesis industrial chemistry 7. Strategies and Industrial practices efforts for promoting the circular economy 7.1. Sustainable material selection 7.2. Resource efficiency and waste reduction 7.3. Closing the loop 7.4. Digitalization and Industry 4.0 7.5. Policy and regulatory support & collaboration and stakeholder engagement 7.6. Circular supply chain management, education and capacity building 7.7. Policy and regulatory frameworks 8. ESG & Industrial chemistry case studies role for novel circular economy model 9. Conclusion Disclosure statement CRediT authorship contribution statement ORCID and Email References PrintField10: PrintField11: PrintField12: PrintField13: PrintField14: PrintField15: PrintField16: PrintField17: PrintField18: PrintField19: PrintField110: PrintField111: PrintField112: PrintField113: PrintField114: PrintField20: PrintField21: PrintField22: PrintField23: PrintField24: PrintField25: PrintField26: PrintField27: PrintField28: PrintField29: PrintField210: PrintField211: PrintField212: PrintField213: PrintField214: