Assessment the Adoption Level and Factors Influencing the Adoption of Circular Economy Among the Adult Consumers in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

The circular economy (CE) decreases food waste, enhances food security and maintains food. This study assesses the acceptance of CE in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and identifies its factors. Primary data were collected from 384 Saudi citizens aged 18 years and above through a structured questionnaire using a cross-sectional technique. Data analysis comprised descriptive statistics and OLRM. The CE level was calculated based on 40 questions asked to the participants on recyclable bread, dates, cooked rice, cooked pasta, stewed veggies, stewed meat and fruit. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.931 for all queries. Adult CE adoption is low (3.1 %), mid (34.4 %), and high (62.5 %). OLRM studies demonstrate that CE applications and platforms improve CE levels. Participants who disagreed that not retaining leftover food wastes food had 7.89 times increased probability of having high CE levels. CE levels are 4.94 times higher when food purchases are not out of boredom. The results support the development of food recycling apps and platforms, educational and awareness efforts, and regulatory frameworks and regulations. They support change in behavior, food security, reduction in food waste and sustainable food systems.