Towards the circular economy from the perspective of new institutional theory: a systematic analysis of the literature with InOrdinatio protocol

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to analyse the publication stage on the transition to a circular economy (CE) from the perspective of the isomorphic mechanisms of the new institutional theory (NIT). Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted a systematic literature review using the Methodi Ordinatio protocol across four databases, resulting in the analysis of 17 articles. Findings The authors identified a network of CE studies among universities in different countries. As a main result, this study contributed to demonstrating the diversity of approaches available to investigate CE, the importance of stakeholders in the process of transition from linear economy to CE and the means for the transition to CE, as well as the need for future studies covering the detailed analysis of the transition process and the comparison of the evolution of the states/regions of the same country in this process. Originality/value The study analyses and summarises the existing literature on CE through the lens of the NIT, analysing the stage of publication based on the phases of implementation of CE (micro, meso and macro). With a research agenda, it presents the current gaps, providing a possible direction for future studies.