The Circular Economy in European Union Supply Chains: A Literature Review

ABSTRACT This research aims to analyze the implementation of the circular economy (CE) in European Union (EU) supply chains (SC), highlighting its potential to transform production systems and maximize resource efficiency while minimizing waste. Our study identifies the major trends and advancements in this field, focusing on the barriers that prevent its full adoption. The methodology employed is a scientometric analysis based on the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. The review process is developed in two main stages. First, the PRISMA method is applied to identify relevant literature. The second stage involves a quantitative scientometric analysis alongside the Tree of Science (ToS) methodology for qualitative assessment. The objective is to determine the key contributions and their evolution over time in the field of the circular economy. The main results show that scientific production in Europe has grown significantly since 2018, with Italy and the United Kingdom being the countries with the highest number of publications and citations on the subject. The industries most engaged in adopting the CE include the chemical, food, and waste management sectors. Overall, it is observed that circular practices such as resource recirculation, waste valorization, and energy recovery are associated not only with environmental benefits but also with improved economic performance and social impacts, as well as corporate sustainability (CS) management, framing the CE as a multidimensional paradigm. It also links to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), associating CE practices with specific SDGs to reinforce their global relevance—particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). This research highlights the importance of collaboration among governments, industries, and academia in overcoming structural barriers and achieving an effective transition to more sustainable circular models. Additionally, it underscores that although the circular economy has made significant progress in Europe, a stronger regulatory framework is needed for its large‐scale implementation.