Focusing on the Role of the Circular Economy in the Supply Chain to Reduce Waste: Evidence from Hotel Supply Chains

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the relevance of the circular economy in relation to the utilisation of big data, specifically within the supply chain, with the aim of reducing waste. The research is conducted within the hotel industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The variables under consideration in this study encompass circular economy supply chain design, circular economy supply chain relationship management, digital sustainability, and circular economy innovation. The dependent variable under investigation pertains to the concept of reverse logistics. The mediating variable in this study refers to the extent to which data utilisation influences the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. On the other hand, the moderating variable pertains to the role of information sharing in influencing the strength or direction of the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The study employs a quantitative research design, wherein data was gathered through the administration of a survey to employees employed in various restaurants and hotels within Saudi Arabia.The study's results indicate that the design of circular economy supply chains and the management of circular economy relationships have a significant influence on reverse logistics. Additionally, the impact of digital sustainability and circular economy innovation on reverse logistics is also found to be significant. The study revealed that the utilisation of big data and the sharing of information were both found to have a significant impact. This study contributes to the existing body of literature by examining observed variables and offering practical applications for the hotel industry, with a specific focus on Saudi Arabia and its global implications. Finally, the present study addresses its inherent limitations and offers suggestions for future research endeavours.