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A Systematic Literature Review on Urban Mining: The State of the Art and Future Directions

Author

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  • Sanja Liebig-Schultz

    (Institute for Information Management in Engineering, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany)

  • Lucas Greif

    (Institute for Information Management in Engineering, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, 76133 Karlsruhe, Germany)

Abstract

This systematic review uses the PRISMA method to comprehensively analyze the current state of research and development of urban mining technologies. Existing technologies, their effectiveness, and areas of application are examined. Research gaps are identified, and the potential of previously unused methods, as well as key developments in the technology sector, are highlighted. Furthermore, connections between technologies and their application areas are explored. A total of 45 publications from the databases Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink, covering the years between 2022 and 2025, are considered. The inclusion and exclusion criteria focus specifically on urban mining-related technologies. Apart from metallurgical processes, only a few established technologies currently exist in urban mining. Three technologies were identified as breakthroughs. Technologies such as membrane processes and composting, originally developed for other areas, are increasingly being transferred to urban mining. Despite these advancements, most research remains at the laboratory stage. Practical implementation and full utilization of waste are currently insufficient. This review represents the first comprehensive technological overview of the future of urban mining.

Suggested Citation

  • Sanja Liebig-Schultz & Lucas Greif, 2026. "A Systematic Literature Review on Urban Mining: The State of the Art and Future Directions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-27, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:8:p:3947-:d:1921361
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