Digital transformation for a circular economy: insights from co-word analysis

Abstract

This work aims to analyze the relationship between Digitalization and the Circular Economy, identify the key terms and concepts used in the scientific literature, and examine their relationship to each other to produce a set of guidelines that show the application of digital technologies in different Circular Economy implementation practices. For this purpose, the bibliometric technique of co-words (or matching of words) was used. Specifically, a total of 199 documents from the Web of Science database published up to December 2022, were analyzed using Biblioshiny software. The strategy map showing the evolution of the relationship between them is presented. The results show which authors, articles, and journals have the greatest influence on the subject. By analyzing co-words, a map of the most important themes was created, showing how digital transformation has evolved to establish the transition of companies to the Circular Economy. Different thematic approaches such as sustainability and the use of digital technologies to promote different Circular Economy practices are proposed. This study provides an analysis of the use of digital technologies in implementing the Circular Economy. It highlights successful initiatives and the challenges companies and governments face in this process and examines the changes in business models and industrial practices. Recommendations for future research are proposed to simultaneously promote Digitalization and the Circular Economy and contribute to the achievement of long-term sustainability goals.