Educating for the circular future: A bibliometric study on circular economy in educational settings

Authors

  • Pavitra Krishnan School of Educational Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia.
  • Mageswary Karpudewan School of Educational Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp193-213

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The circular economy (CE) has gained global momentum as a strategy to promote sustainability through resource efficiency and waste reduction. To instill sustainable mindsets in future generation, integrating CE in education is essential. However, a comprehensive understanding of scholarly contributions of CE in education remains limited. Therefore, the objective of this study is to map global research trends on CE in education by analyzing publication trends, influential author, leading countries and co-occurring author keywords clustering through a bibliometric study.

Methodology: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer software (version 1.6.18) based on data retrieved from Scopus database. A total of 1424 documents published between 2006 and July 2025 were analysed. Data collection was conducted between July 10 and 12, 2025. This study analysed publication trends, authors, institutions, countries productivity, author keyword co-occurrence and clustering.

Findings: The findings highlight a significant increase in publications, with influential authors, institutions and countries. One dominant keyword and 13 thematic clusters were identified, reflecting the growing interest and multidisciplinary nature of CE in education.

Contributions: By mapping research trajectories and key contributors, it offers a solid basis for advancing future research, guiding curriculum development, shaping education policy and strengthening CE-focused educational settings.

Keywords: Circular economy, education, sustainability, bibliometric analysis, keywords clustering.

Cite as: Krishnan, P., & Karpudewan, M. (2026). Educating for the circular future: A bibliometric study on circular economy in educational settings. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(1), 193-213. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp193-213

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Published

2026-02-28

How to Cite

Educating for the circular future: A bibliometric study on circular economy in educational settings. (2026). Journal of Nusantara Studies (JONUS), 11(1), 193-213. https://doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss1pp193-213