Paradigm and efficiency of industrial waste resource utilization: Evidence from China

Achieving industrial symbiosis and zero emissions requires integrated frameworks for optimizing industrial waste valorization. However, existing studies often overlook the synergy between operational paradigms and multidimensional efficiency. This study bridges this gap through a mixed-methods investigation of 48 Chinese industrial waste resource (IWR) utilization centers, combining qualitative analysis of 1.90 GB of textual case data with a Multi-Criteria Decision Making-Grey Relational Projection Method (MCDM-GRPM) quantitative analysis framework. Two key contributions emerge: (1) redefining industrial waste as IWRs and formulating a "technology-enterprise-policy" paradigm that integrates policy incentives, cross-sector collaboration, and technological innovation to facilitate closed-loop recycling; and (2) developing a multidimensional efficiency evaluation system incorporating technical, economic, and ecological criteria to assess IWR utilization performance. Findings demonstrate that the proposed paradigm operationalizes the 3R principles, transforming waste into high-value resources while fostering industrial symbiosis. Efficiency analysis reveals notable disparities among centers, with top performers (e.g., DMU25, DMU21) leveraging geographic advantages, waste-type characteristics, and industrial diversification. High efficiency in individual dimensions does not ensure overall performance, underscoring the need for balanced, multicriteria-driven strategies. By integrating qualitative and quantitative insights, this study provides a replicable framework for advancing circular economy transitions and promoting industrial symbiosis, aligning economic and environmental objectives.