Theoretical relationship between circular economy and social innovation from a sustainable development perspective

Javier Carreño-Ortiz (), Manuela Escobar-Sierra and Fredy Lopez-Perez
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Javier Carreño-Ortiz: Universidad Nacional de Colombia - Sede Orinoquia
Manuela Escobar-Sierra: Universidad de Medellín
Fredy Lopez-Perez: Universidad de Medellín

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 2025, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-20

Abstract: Abstract This research represents the first attempt to address the theoretical relationship between circular economy and social innovation from a sustainable development perspective. Both circular economy and social innovation are key alternatives to the current production and consumption system that promote sustainable development and contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change. The transition from the linear economic model to a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable one is essential to address the impact of climate change. The research includes both quantitative and qualitative strategies. In the quantitative approach, a triangulation exercise was conducted based on a bibliometric analysis of 1180 documents using tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix. A content analysis of 99 documents was conducted using a qualitative approach. It was identified that there is no theoretical exploration that correlates circular economy with social innovation from a sustainable development perspective. In addition to the convergence between both concepts towards sustainable development, the interaction between governance, actors, design, and waste hierarchy stands out a favoring a systemic change in the way of production and consumption. Finally, recognizing their emergence and lack of a single definition, a definition and framework for the implementation of circular economy and social innovation are proposed, and some recommendations are presented to deepen relevant aspects for future research strategies.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-05862-0

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