Mapping circular economy adoption in European SMEs from a bibliometric perspective

This article analyses the scale, dynamics, and thematic trends in research on the adoption of the Circular Economy (CE) among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the European Union (EU). Its primary aim is to map influential contributions, identify research clusters, and explore the interconnections between barriers, enablers, and eco-innovation strategies that facilitate CE transitions in SMEs. The core research problem concerns how SMEs adopt CE principles and how these adoption patterns vary across strategic, technological, economic, and operational dimensions. A bibliometric analysis of publications from 2016–2025 indexed in the Scopus database was conducted using Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer. Performance analysis (of authors, journals, and countries) and scientific mapping (via bibliographic coupling and keyword co-occurrence) were complemented by comparative cluster analysis to explore synergies among different aspects of CE adoption. The findings highlight the interplay of digitalization, leadership, ecoinnovation, and supportive policy in driving CE transitions in SMEs. However, certain limitations should be emphasized. Reliance on English-language publications and a single database (Scopus) may lead to the underrepresentation of studies published in national languages or disseminated through other repositories. The focus on EU-affiliated studies may also limit broader global applicability. Moreover, the bibliometric approach prioritizes quantitative results, constraining indepth assessment of theoretical and methodological dimensions. Despite these limitations, the study deepens understanding of CE implementation processes and offers practical recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and business leaders.