Mapping of circular economy in steel industry: a bibliometric review and future research agenda

As a backbone of modern infrastructure, the steel industry is a key driver of global economic growth, producing around 1.9 billion metric tons of crude steel annually and contributing 2% to global GDP. However, this industry might come with substantial environmental challenges that cannot be ignored. Steelmaking accounts for about 7% of global CO2 emissions and generates an estimated 400 million tons of solid waste yearly. These wastes include slags, contaminated materials, wastewater, and other residues that, if not managed properly, might contaminate soil and water, degrade ecosystems, and pose serious human health risks. This review examines Scopus literature from 1991 to 2024 using tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix to chart the current state of circular economy research in the steel industry. The findings highlight the steel industry's substantial environmental challenges and the urgent need for future research to enable circular economy adoption, emphasising the crucial role of academics, researchers, and industry professionals in shaping the future of the steel industry.