Scientometric Analysis of Circular Innovation: A Novel Approach for Sustainability

Abstract

: This paper aimed to explore the current research trends in circular innovation (CI) through scientometric analysis of data, acquired from the Web of Science (WoS) database, using the VOSviewer program. By applying some filters to draw boundaries, this paper found 917 journal articles related to CI in the Social Sciences Citation Index. Tables and maps were used to visualize and illustrate the keywords occurrence, leading journals, authors, and countries that made the greatest contribution to the research field. As the first scientometric analysis of CI research, this paper provided an up-to-date and inclusive big picture of related literature, indicating its unique and primary value. In addition, this paper understood and visualized research patterns and trends and identified main topics, countries and journals, which added value to the innovation and sustainability literature. The research results showed that the number of citations and publications about CI increased rapidly after 2010, and the most prominent issues related to CI were circular economy (CE), circular business models, sustainability, and sustainable development. Finally, the paper presented future research directions of CI linked to business management.