Towards Circular Economy: An Explorative Study on Food Waste Management Transformation in Grocery Stores in the Light of the updated Waste Framework Directive

The aim is to investigate the impact and opportunities of the recently updated waste regulations, stipulating that bio-waste must sorted out and stored separately from other waste. This project explores Swedish grocery store operations, particularly focusing on the economic, environmental, and operational dimensions. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the project seeks to address key research questions related to the role of transportation in circularity and waste management under the EU revised Waste Framework Directive. Expected results include insights into economic implications, understanding of transportation's role in circularity, identification of opportunities for innovative logistics solutions, and knowledge on traceability and quality assurance mechanisms. The project will span over two years, with parallel work packages focusing on economic implications, environmental impact, business models, and information dissemination. By integrating expertise from logistics, retailing, and industry partners, the project aims to contribute to the transition to a circular economy and generate new knowledge in the field of waste management.