CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN THE Agave tequilana Weber VALUE CHAIN

Abstract

The blue variety of Agave tequilana Weber is a product of great economic and cultural importance in Mexico, although it faces fluctuations in the prices of agave and environmental challenges. In this study, diversification strategies were evaluated using investment portfolios in the agave value chain, aimed at the production of inulin, bioethanol, and biogas from residual biomass, as well as tequila, under a circular economy approach. The hypothesis proposed is that expanding into innovative products derived from the tequila agave enhances returns and mitigates risks throughout the sector’s value chain. The biorefinery approach within a circular economy model makes it possible to use the entire agave plant, create high-value products, and reduce the risk of price fluctuation and the environmental impact. The diversification of products and the management of the residual biomass increased the production income and contributed to the dispersion of risk.