Mapping the Research Landscape of Circular Economy towards Sustainable Development Goals: A Bibliometric and Content Analysis

Mahwish Rani (), Fong Woon Lai (), Muhammad Kashif Shad (), Ahmad Ali Jan () and Tanweer Hussain ()
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Mahwish Rani: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Department of Management
Fong Woon Lai: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Department of Management
Muhammad Kashif Shad: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Department of Management
Ahmad Ali Jan: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Department of Management
Tanweer Hussain: Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 2025, vol. 16, issue 6, No 54, 18950-18989

Abstract: Abstract One of the novel approaches to attaining sustainable development goals (SDGs) is focusing on circular economy (CE) to protect the environment and make efficient use of available resources. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric and content analysis to explore how CE practices contribute to SDGs within the framework of a Knowledge-Based Economy (KBE), where knowledge creation, diffusion, and application drive sustainable transitions. Using VOSviewer, this study analyzed and visualized 349 documents from the Web of Science database (2015–2023). The findings demonstrate that CE-SDGs research functions as a dynamic knowledge production system, with Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, India, and China emerging as key hubs of knowledge creation. International co-authorship networks reflect patterns of knowledge diffusion, while thematic keyword clusters such as “circular design” and “zero waste” highlight the growing application of CE knowledge to industries and policymaking. This study contributes to the knowledge-based economy literature by (1) identifying leading theories, institutions, and countries shaping CE-SDGs research (knowledge creation), (2) mapping collaboration networks and highlighting knowledge transfer gaps, particularly in the Global South (knowledge diffusion), and (3) linking research outputs to actionable policy directions and SDG targets, such as responsible consumption and production (knowledge application). By providing evidence-based insights into the intellectual landscape of CE-SDGs research, this study equips policymakers, academics, and sustainability practitioners with the knowledge necessary to design strategies that leverage CE as a knowledge-driven accelerator for sustainable development and economic transformation.

Keywords: Circular economy; Sustainable development goals; Bibliometric analysis; Waste management; Recycling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s13132-025-02867-7

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