Mapping the Landscape

The circular economy (CE) has emerged as a strategic framework to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation through resource efficiency, waste reduction, and closed-loop systems. The current study uniquely integrates the PRISMA protocol with the 5W1H analytical framework and bibliometric triangulation to bridge conceptual, behavioural, and policy perspectives within CE research. This study conducts a systematic literature review of 332 peer-reviewed articles from Scopus and Web of Science, applying the PRISMA methodology and the 5W1Hb analytical framework. Bibliometric and thematic analyses reveal five core research themes: technological innovation, circular business models, policy mechanisms, behavioural insights, and supply chain optimisation. While the United Kingdom and India lead in scholarly and policy contributions,the CE research landscape remains fragmented. Key gaps persist in digital nudging, behavioural adoption, and sector-specific applications. The study emphasises the need for interdisciplinary approaches and model-driven frameworks to foster systemic CE transitions. By mapping conceptual trends, theoretical linkages, and regional participation, this study provides a novel integrative synthesis and actionable implications for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to accelerate CE adoption.