Integrating Industry 5.0 and the Circular Economy

This book explores the synergy between Industry 5.0 and the circular economy to address global challenges in waste management and resource scarcity. It highlights Industry 5.0’s human-centric and sustainable approach, leveraging technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, blockchain, and additive manufacturing to enable circular practices. Key themes include waste-to-resource innovation, policy frameworks, and ethical human–technology collaboration. Offering case studies and strategic insights, the book provides a roadmap for designing closed-loop systems that enhance resource efficiency and ecological resilience.Explores low-cost, decentralized Industry 5.0 applications and circular economy strategies in developing countries.Provides an in-depth analysis of enabling technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, human-centric automation, and bio-inspired manufacturing.Discusses Gender, Equity, and Social Inclusion (GESI) perspectives, focusing on the social dimensions of circular transitions.Offers critical reflections on future trends, research gaps, and innovation opportunities at the intersection of digital transformation and sustainability.Includes illustrative case studies from diverse sectors and regions, along with policy recommendations.This book is intended for graduate students and researchers in industrial and environmental engineering.