Decoding the Nexus: A Bibliometric Review on Sustainability, Circular Economy, and Consumer Food Waste

Abstract

One of the issues that has gained importance within the scope of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is the issue of food waste. These goals, which represent very important and urgent problems to be solved at the global level, are extremely critical in terms of sustainability. Food waste, by its nature at the intersection of economic, social, and environmental sustainability goals, has become a global problem linked to key challenges in the global environment in terms of food security, climate change, malnutrition, and economic sustainability. The fact that consumers are one of the most important factors affecting food waste in the transition to a circular economy increases the importance of this study once again. Due to the lack of systematic, chronological studies showing how food waste develops over time, this study will examine the development and evolution of food waste research using a bibliometric analysis. In this way, it aims to gain a comprehensive insight into the field’s current state and shed light on this highly important area of study. In addition to informing policymakers, practitioners, and consumers with the results of this research, it is also aimed to support all relevant individuals, institutions, and organizations in the efforts to combat food waste. One of the main objectives of this study is to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For this reason, it can be stated that the research has objectives in line with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action.