A Systematic Review of Circular Economy Research Targeting European Countries

Abstract

The transition from a linear to a circular economy has received significant institutional support from national governments and international organizations. Yet, it remains unclear to what extent such a transition is beneficial to businesses in European markets. The current trend can only result in a lasting shift if it is willingly embraced by business communities based on strong evidence of positive effects on business performance. This paper uses a systematic literature review to assess the current state of research into the circular economy transition within countries of the European Economic Area. A sample of 102 studies is obtained and analyzed to find out whether research into the circular economy is significantly focused on the consequences of implementing circular economy principles in businesses, as well as to reveal which countries and industries receive attention from academics in the circular economy sphere. Results indicate that Italy is overrepresented in circular economy research as a target country, that the textile and manufacturing industries receive most of the focus, and that research is currently more concerned with what supports a transition to more circular modes as opposed to the consequences of such a transition.