How to Add Value and Close Loops with External Flows of Material and Energy in a Rural Property? A Tool Based on Circular Economy Initiatives

Abstract

Circular economy actions can be alternatives to closing loops, with material-, waste- and energy-related initiatives towards promoting greater internal value-adding and recover the resources. Therefore, this paper’s aim is twofold: (i) apply the AgroCircleWins tool to a rural property that presents material, energy and resources, and exchanges with external organizations, and (ii) foment the circular economy in the rural environment. The AgroCircleWins tool is based on a set of a circular graph representations, and quantitative circularity indicators. The quantitative indicators show a circularity index ranging from 0% to 100%, which can be assessed on different levels. The tool was applied in a rural property that has crops, chickens production, and cattle. In addition, the farm uses sustainable processes, such as rainwater harvesting, biocomposting, and solar power generation. As a result of circularity, level 1 (only rural property is 44% circular) and level 2 (rural property and agro-industrial cooperative is 59% circular). The tool showed the involvement of the rural property with the agroindustrial cooperative in terms of maintaining material, energy and waste within the system, which generates greater internal value, independence, and competitive advantage.