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Circular Agriculture Models: A Systematic Review of Academic Contributions

Author

Listed:
  • Wilma Guerrero-Villegas

    (School of Economics, Red Idea-Ciencia, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador)

  • Maribel Rosero-Rosero

    (School of Economics, Red Idea-Ciencia, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador)

  • Eleonora-Melissa Layana-Bajana

    (School of Envirnomental Engineering, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador)

  • Héctor Villares-Villafuerte

    (School of Economics, Red Idea-Ciencia, Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ibarra 100105, Ecuador)

Abstract

This study contributes to scientific theory by analyzing the models proposed within the framework of circular agriculture to determine how the three dimensions of sustainability—environmental, economic, and social—are integrated into their implementation. A systematic review was conducted on articles published between 2016 and 2025, indexed in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, as well as the relevant grey literature. The methodology employed an extensive content analysis designed to minimize bias, applying filters related to specific knowledge areas to delimitate the search scope and enhance the precision of the research. The findings reveal that the research on circular agriculture models is predominantly grounded in the principles of the circular economy and its associated indicators. Moreover, these models tend to focus on environmental metrics, often neglecting a comprehensive exploration of the social and economic dimensions of sustainable development. It can be concluded that a significant gap persists in the literature regarding the circularity of agriculture and its socio-economic impacts and the role of regulatory frameworks, aspects that future research must address in order to achieve sustainability in circular agriculture.

Suggested Citation

  • Wilma Guerrero-Villegas & Maribel Rosero-Rosero & Eleonora-Melissa Layana-Bajana & Héctor Villares-Villafuerte, 2025. "Circular Agriculture Models: A Systematic Review of Academic Contributions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-18, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:7146-:d:1719266
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    References listed on IDEAS

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