The Impact of Circular Supply Chains on Sustainable Development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The study aims to explore the reality of circular supply chains in the local context of the Kingdom. The challenges and opportunities available to promote this sustainable transformation were identified, ensuring a review of the basic concepts of the circular economy model and its applications in supply chains, in addition to clarifying the role of the private sector and providing strategic recommendations to support this development. A multifaceted approach was adopted to assess the current status of the circular economy concept. The study population consisted of employees of companies and institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The sample size was (117) individuals from employees of some companies and institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They were selected using a simple random method. The methodology included a review of the relevant literature, and a questionnaire was used. The most important finding was that there are promising opportunities to adopt the circular supply chain model in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, thanks to the increasing government support for the transition to a circular economy, in addition to increasing environmental awareness among individuals and companies. However, this model faces some major challenges, most notably the need to encourage companies to take the initiative and contribute to adopting circular supply chain practices, as well as the need to enhance awareness and education programs that highlight the importance of these transformations for society in general. Based on this, it was suggested that there should be coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors. To address these challenges, the importance of the role of various sectors in promoting circular supply chains through innovation and the development of technological solutions, along with tracking sustainable purchasing and supply practices, was emphasized. The study provides strategic recommendations at the policy and program levels to enable the transition in the Saudi context.