Zahra Khoshsepehr, Saeed Alinejad, Fateme Solookian-Jahromi, Samira Ebrahimi
The increasing global crises in supply chains, projected population growth to 9.7 billion by 2050, and depletion of fossil resources necessitate a revision of traditional supply chain models. In this context, the SSCSCM approach, utilizing modern technologies and circular economy principles, offers an effective solution for improving efficiency, reducing waste, managing resources, and enhancing environmental sustainability. This study’s primary objective is to design a comprehensive model for identifying, prioritizing, and analyzing the challenges of implementing the industry 5.0 in SSCSCM. Additionally, the research investigates smart-circular models and solutions to tackle these challenges using fuzzy mathematics tools. To this end, three innovative methods—CRITIC, DEMATEL, and Fuzzy QFD—have been developed within a fuzzy framework, facilitating a more accurate analysis of the complex relationships among challenges and the extraction of prioritized solutions. The findings of the research indicate that there are three key categories of challenges in the implementation of Industry 5.0 within the context of SSCSCM: socio-cultural challenges (CH7), environmental and sustainability challenges (CH6), and technological and innovation challenges (CH3). Among these, social and technological challenges exert the highest influence on other components and are recognized as critical drivers, while economic challenges (CH2) and resource management (CH10) exhibit the greatest dependency on other factors. It can be concluded that the success of realizing SSCSCM requires a strategic focus on technological infrastructures and social culturalization. Of the 33 identified solutions, the most significant include the establishment of smart infrastructures for waste collection and recycling (weight 9.08), the development of digital infrastructures for tracking resources (weight 5.96), and the design of technological solutions for converting waste into clean energy (weight 4.71). In addition to increasing operational efficiency, these solutions are aligned with Industry 5.0 requirements and sustainable development goals and help promote supply chain sustainability and resilience. From a methodological innovation perspective, this research contributes to interdisciplinary knowledge and decision-making tools in complex environments by developing three novel numerical methods in a fuzzy context and creating a comprehensive model for analyzing the challenges and solutions of SSCSCM. From a practical standpoint, the proposed model assists managers and policymakers in identifying key dimensions of Industry 5.0, prioritizing resources, and formulating actionable strategies, while also addressing challenges such as effective training and enhancing reverse logistics infrastructures. In terms of macro-level implications, the results of this study align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including goals 8, 9, 12, 13, and 17. The proposed model demonstrates substantial conceptual depth and effectiveness in facilitating decision-making, enhancing organizational performance, reducing environmental impacts, and strengthening international collaborations toward sustainable development.