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Social responsibility and the circular economy: a bibliometric exploration of strategic convergence in corporate sustainability

Author

Listed:
  • Tomás Leandro Zapata Soto

    (Universidad del Bío-Bío)

  • Catalina Leal Leal

    (Universidad del Bío-Bío)

  • Verónica Peña Acuña

    (Universidad del Bío-Bío)

Abstract

Introduction: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Circular Economy (CE) have established themselves as key approaches to organizational sustainability; however, the literature still presents fragmentation regarding their interrelationship. Objective: To analyze scientific output linking CSR and CE, identifying trends, actors, and gaps through bibliometric analysis. Methodology: A quantitative approach was applied to 221 articles indexed in Web of Science, using the VOSviewer and Bibliometrix tools to map co-authorship, co-citation, and keyword networks. Results: There has been sustained increase in publications since 2017, with Italy, China, and Spain leading the way. The Journal of Cleaner Production and Sustainability account for the highest productivity. The dominant themes are environmental management, innovation, and circular models. Discussion: The literature reflects progress toward CSR-CE convergence, although conceptual, methodological, and geographical gaps remain. Organizational barriers and the need to integrate financial and non-financial indicators are identified. Conclusions: It is essential to promote comparative end empirical studies, especially in Latin America, that incorporate common metrics and interdisciplinary approaches to strengthen the transition to sustainable business models.

Suggested Citation

  • Tomás Leandro Zapata Soto & Catalina Leal Leal & Verónica Peña Acuña, 2026. "Social responsibility and the circular economy: a bibliometric exploration of strategic convergence in corporate sustainability," Revista Tendencias, Universidad de Narino, vol. 27(01), pages 178-206, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:col:000520:022235
    DOI: 0.22267/rtend.262701.292
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • A12 - General Economics and Teaching - - General Economics - - - Relation of Economics to Other Disciplines
    • D78 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Positive Analysis of Policy Formulation and Implementation
    • D85 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Network Formation
    • M14 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility
    • Q56 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environment and Development; Environment and Trade; Sustainability; Environmental Accounts and Accounting; Environmental Equity; Population Growth

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