Integration of open innovation, circularity and sustainability: A systematic mapping of connections, analysis of indicators and future prospects

Abstract

We carried out this novel study to explore various connections of open innovation (OI) with circular economy (CE) and/or sustainable development (SD) and analyse the maturity of their integration based on various characteristics. We followed a systematic literature review approach to identify, select and analyse studies, published from 2012 to 2023. Our study used various keywords to search for the relevant articles in Scopus and Web of Science databases. After this, we presented the bibliometric, contents and indicators' analyses. Overall, the results revealed that OI approaches were used to enhance business capabilities to circularity and/or sustainability. OI appeared to be linked with all three dimensions of sustainability, whereas CE was more associated with environmental pillar. The study also documented a framework of 75 sustainability variables, with at least 27 indicators related to OI, circularity and sustainability. We evaluated the maturity of indicators and integrating parameters based on their frequent usage. In comparison with environmental and social dimensions, numerous studies lacked in including the economic aspects. Comparatively, more studies were based on micro-level analysis. Recycling was found to be the most commonly used CE strategy. For OI, inbound model was mostly used, whereas use and disposal life cycle phases were focused more. Overall, there were more environmental indicators that were used more frequently. In a sense, we found the integration of OI, CE and/or SD more mature for environmental category and less for economic aspect. Based on the findings, we outlined various future research directions and practical implications.