In this document we focus on defining the state of the art of a structured group of digital technologies, mainly used in the supply chains of by-products derived from the production processes of juices, beverages and the commercialization of citrus fruits. The structuring has been carried out by determining key actors in the supply chains, from the farmer to the distributor and retailer. These supply chains start in the four pilot countries and end in France and Germany.
As a methodology for adoption, we have used the technology roadmap, which will help us to determine the adoption strategies in the different phases of the process and monitor the results for each case. We propose, in the first instance, to generate a concept of integration along the supply chain, under the slogan of circular value optimization. Under this integration concept, we start by
determining that the technologies to be adopted in the chains must consider not only functional and performance aspects, but also environmental and social impacts. These impacts will be aimed at carrying out processes for closing material cycles and making use of waste, as well as technological adoption strategies based on the principles of reuse and remanufacturing, as proposed by the circular economy.
In addition of being enabling technologies for closing loops and producing high quality citrus byproducts, these technologies are digital and transmit both performance and on-site condition data, which further strengthen the production monitored management, but as well the distribution efficiency of by-products such as perfumes, nutrients, and medicines. In this sense, we assume that the state of the art contains aspects of innovation, through digitization, but also of
sustainability, based on the circular economy.
These circular and digital supply chains will play an important role in the transformation of linear economic systems into circular systems of value management, using waste and the extension of useful life as key performance factors. They will provide, exponentially, better recycled raw materials that will avoid the use of natural sources. They will also contribute to the reduction of emissions, as digitalization will help to coordinate intelligent transport and storage. Additionally, they reduce the usage of energy, by avoiding the adoption of new technologies and supporting a circular modernization that corresponds to reuse and remanufacturing. To close the reading of the state of the art, we propose a benchmarking system, which will help us to research whether the supply chains to be studied behave in a higher or lower degree of optimization with respect to three aspects: 1. Collection and transmission of condition and performance data through digitization. 2. Percentages of value creation and/or recovery based on the production of by-products. 3.The technological adoption within the principles of the circular economy (remanufacturing and reuse), considering regulatory compliance levels and industry standards, which demonstrate quality performance and efficiency.