Framework para implantação de tecnologias da indústria 4.0 que promova a economia circular no setor de pós-colheita

Abstract

The agribusiness sector sustains households around the world, employing nearly half of the global population and playing a central role in providing jobs and livelihoods. In Brazil, the sector is particularly significant, accounting for about 37% of formal employment and more than 19 million direct and indirect jobs. However, it faces challenges such as resource scarcity, climate change, and the excessive use of agricultural inputs, which impose the need for sustainable strategies for its future viability. In this context, the circular economy and digitalization emerge as promising solutions, with the integration of enabling technologies and circular practices aimed at sustaining the viability of agribusiness in the face of population growth and increasing global demand for food. Digitalization, in particular, aligned with the circular economy, presents itself as a viable path to anticipate and meet future trends, promoting a sustainable approach throughout the production chain. The research in question investigated the intersection between Industry 4.0 technologies and circular practices in the post-harvest context of Brazilian agribusiness. Using a methodology that included a systematic literature review and the application of questionnaires to companies in the sector, the research evaluated the presence of a relationship between the influences of technologies and circular practices. Consultations with experts in the field were carried out to improve the diagnosis, resulting in a comprehensive and up-to-date view of the circular economy and technologies within agribusiness. As a practical result, the research proposed an integrated service framework, refined through analyses, contributions, and validations by experts. The social contribution of the study extends beyond the academic sphere, seeking to positively impact society by promoting circularity in post-harvest, aligned with global sustainability trends and positioning the sector competitively in an ever-evolving international scenario. This study confirmed the effectiveness of integrating Industry 4.0 technologies with circular economy practices in the post-harvest sector of Brazilian agribusiness, revealing a positive relationship between technological innovations and operational sustainability. This contributes significantly to theoretical advancement and more sustainable business practices. Recognizing specific limitations of the Brazilian context, the work suggests future investigations in emerging areas and in the long term to strengthen the adoption of these practices in the global agribusiness.