Recent advances in multi-criteria decision-making approaches for circular supply chains: A comprehensive review

This review article explores the pivotal role of multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) in optimizing circular supply chains (CSC). MCDM methodologies are vital for navigating the complex decision-making scenarios inherent in CSC, where multiple conflicting criteria must be simultaneously addressed. This comprehensive review highlights the commonly employed MCDM methodologies and their applications within CSC, underscoring their potential to enhance sustainability and efficiency. The increasing academic interest in MCDM within supply chain management (SCM) is evident from the publication trends, which show a significant rise from 2000 to 2024. This review focuses into the specific challenges faced by CSCs, such as resource scarcity, waste management, and environmental impact. By integrating MCDM approaches, organizations can better prioritize and balance these competing demands, leading to more resilient and adaptive supply chains. The review emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, considering economic, environmental, and social dimensions to achieve truly sustainable supply chains.Moreover, the article explores various MCDM methodologies where each methodology’s application in CSC is examined, demonstrating their effectiveness in addressing sustainability, efficiency, and risk management challenges. The review concludes that MCDM methodologies are crucial for achieving balanced and sustainable outcomes in CSC. With ongoing technological advancements and a deeper understanding of CSC dynamics, the future of MCDM research in this field appears promising. Overall, this comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of MCDM in CSC, highlighting its critical role in driving sustainable development. Overall, this comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of MCDM in CSC, highlighting its critical role in driving sustainable development.