Consumer Behavior in the Circular Economy: A Systematic Review of High-impact Studies

The transition to a circular economy (CE) relies heavily on consumer engagement, which directly influences the adoption of sustainable products, the efficiency of closed-loop supply chains, and the success of remanufacturing and reuse practices. This study systematically reviews the literature on consumer responses to circular products, identifying key topics, behavioral drivers, and research gaps that shape circularity. Going beyond broad overviews, the review critically assesses the role of consumer participation across CE strategies, offering insights into motivational and behavioral barriers. Following the PRISMA protocol, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted based on 75 high-impact studies retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science (2020–present). The findings reveal that consumer awareness, perceived risk, financial trade-offs, and perceived product quality significantly affect the acceptance of remanufactured and reusable products. While financial incentives influence purchase intention, environmental benefits must also be evident to secure consumer engagement in circular propositions. The review further highlights that consumer-driven demand enhances the performance of closed-loop supply chains, although cultural, technological, and policy-related enablers remain underexplored. This study advances the field by offering an updated synthesis of consumer behavior in CE contexts, highlighting the role of digital tools and policy interventions in driving market acceptance. By deepening our understanding of consumer behavior, the review provides actionable strategies for companies, policymakers, and researchers striving to accelerate the CE transition. These include clearer product communication, targeted incentives, and research agendas focused on cultural and technological enablers of consumer adoption.