Article: Exploring the trends, models and challenges of the circular economy: a review of the literature Journal: International Journal of Services and Operations Management (IJSOM) 2026 Vol.55 No.7 pp.1 - 23 Abstract: The circular economy (CE) replaces the linear extract-produce-consume-discard paradigm with regenerative systems designed to preserve the lifespan and value of materials, components, and products. This article reviews current CE literature to identify trends, models, challenges, and opportunities for goods and services organisations. Employing a qualitative, descriptive methodology, the study analyses 50 articles - selected from an initial 372 - published between 2020 and 2026 in operations, production, logistics, and supply chain management journals. Findings highlight prominent CE trends, notably additive manufacturing and information technology integration. Additionally, key operational frameworks such as the regeneration and resource recovery models are identified. Ultimately, navigating inherent challenges and capitalising on CE opportunities requires the formulation of robust policies to strengthen sustainability, alongside the active participation of all economic stakeholders. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Exploring the trends, models and challenges of the circular economy: a review of the literature

Authors: Sergio Andrés Cáceres-Mariño; Andrés Guillermo Angarita-Monroy; Lina Margarita Henao-Gómez

Addresses: Fundación Universitaria Comfenalco Santander, Avenida González Valencia N° 52 – 69, piso 1 Oficina UNC en Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia ' Fundación Universitaria Comfenalco Santander, Avenida González Valencia N° 52 – 69, piso 1 Oficina UNC en Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia ' Fundación Universitaria Comfenalco Santander, Avenida González Valencia N° 52 – 69, piso 1 Oficina UNC en Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia

Abstract: The circular economy (CE) replaces the linear extract-produce-consume-discard paradigm with regenerative systems designed to preserve the lifespan and value of materials, components, and products. This article reviews current CE literature to identify trends, models, challenges, and opportunities for goods and services organisations. Employing a qualitative, descriptive methodology, the study analyses 50 articles - selected from an initial 372 - published between 2020 and 2026 in operations, production, logistics, and supply chain management journals. Findings highlight prominent CE trends, notably additive manufacturing and information technology integration. Additionally, key operational frameworks such as the regeneration and resource recovery models are identified. Ultimately, navigating inherent challenges and capitalising on CE opportunities requires the formulation of robust policies to strengthen sustainability, alongside the active participation of all economic stakeholders.

Keywords: circular economy; operations management; circular supply chains; circularity models; sustainability; reverse logistics.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSOM.2026.157204

International Journal of Services and Operations Management, 2026 Vol.55 No.7, pp.1 - 23

Published online: 22 Oct 2026 *

Title: Exploring the trends, models and challenges of the circular economy: a review of the literature

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