The Contribution of Technologies to the Implementation of the Circular Economy

ABSTRACT With the continuous evolution of innovation, identifying technological alternatives that drive business models has become indispensable for delivering sustainable solutions to society. Thus, this study aims to analyze how technologies contribute to the implementation of the circular economy (CE). To achieve this objective, a systematic literature review was conducted with the support of Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases between the years 2017 and 2023. The results reveal that: (i) circular technologies drive product reinvention, promoting sustainability; (ii) the pivotal role of blockchain in the supply chain; (iii) the importance of educational campaigns to reduce food waste; (iv) waste management through circular design; (v) sharing platforms contribute to the CE; and (vi) in business models, sector diversification is observed, with a notable emphasis on agribusiness, reflecting companies' awareness in promoting sustainability and mitigating environmental impacts. The study compiles 11 ways in which technologies contribute to the implementation of CE, highlights 9 adopted circular closure modes, and underscores 12 distinct impacts generated through the adoption of CE. It discusses the adopted business models and provides eight emerging opportunities for activating CE in technologies. Its relevance extends to the potential to drive the development of innovative business models, promoting sustainable and structured advancement.