Circular Economy and Sustainability in Information Systems: Criteria and Fuzzy AHP Analysis

Maja Mladenović1, Žarko Dimitrijević2,
Dušan J. Simjanović3
1 Faculty of Economics, University of Priština in Kosovska Mitrovica, Kolašinska 156,
38220 Kosovska Mitrovica, Serbia
2 Public Enforcement Officer, Mačvanska 1, Niš, Serbia
3 Faculty of Information Technology, Belgrade Metropolitan University, 11000
Belgrade, Serbia
maja.mladenovic@pr.ac.rs
dimitrijevic.zarko@gmail.com
dusan.simjanovic@metropolitan.ac.rs
DOI: 10.46793/BISEC25.281M

 

ABSTRACT: This paper presents a multidimensional framework for evaluating the role of information systems in supporting circular economy principles, with a particular emphasis on sustainability, transparency, resource efficiency, and economic viability. Unlike previous studies that address these aspects in isolation and lack a comprehensive evaluation approach, this research integrates key criteria into a unified model, enabling systematic comparison and ranking of digital sustainability solutions. The framework is built upon six core groups of criteria: environmental sustainability, digital support for circular practices, resource efficiency, transparency and reporting, adaptability and scalability, and economic viability. A combination of qualitative literature analysis and multi-criteria decision-making methods (AHP and FAHP) was employed to structure and prioritize the criteria. While the proposed model contributes to the theoretical foundations of sustainable information systems, it also offers practical value for decision-makers aiming to implement data-driven circular business models. However, limitations such as the lack of empirical validation, sector-specific customization, and integration of temporal, security, and practitioner perspectives are acknowledged. Future research directions include testing the model in real-world settings, refining criteria weights through expert input, and expanding the framework to address industry-specific and contextual factors. The findings contribute to a more integrated and actionable approach to digital sustainability in both the public and private sectors.

KEYWORDS: Circular economy, Information system, Fuzzy numbers, Fuzzy AHP.

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IZVOR: Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Business Information Security BISEC’2025