The aim of this study is to conduct a meta-analysis of the research published between 2012 and 2022 on solid waste management (SWM) and the circular economy (CE) using bibliometrics. To this end, the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases were used as sources of publications. Processing was conducted using the R language version 4.2.2 and the Bibliometrix software package version 4.1.2. A theoretical basis was built on the terms in order to present their interactions in the context of scientific debate. The results show that there is a need to create indicators to facilitate the evaluation of SWM. They can be identified from the data collected during the management process. Examples include the volume of material collected, operating costs, and recycling rates. Indicators are important in the waste management process because they help quantify the effectiveness of the management practices adopted, help to identify areas that need improvement, and make it possible to monitor the progress of work over time and the achievement of previously set targets. Two other important results are the maximization of the use of resources by increasing the useful life of the product and the emergence of new sustainable business models with recycling as a driving force. Finally, and perhaps the most disruptive discovery, is the integration of SWM and CE with blockchain technology to reduce the levels of waste production. This shows how new technologies can be used as partners in solving complex problems, such as solid waste (SW).

The circular economy (CE) has emerged as a viable alternative for tackling the problems caused by rising consumption, including solid waste (SW). The present study conducted a meta-analysis of research published between 2012 and 2022 on CE and solid waste management (SWM). A bibliometric analysis was used from the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases. By studying the articles, we briefly discussed the connections between them and how one contributes to the evolution of the other. Some findings point to greater collaboration between Italy and Bolivia, followed by China and Malaysia. However, they move away from the traditional axes as the United States and Canada. In addition, it was found that the adoption of reuse and selective collection, in fact, allow the reduction of the volume of discarded materials. In this way, it was possible to conclude that a greater connection between CE and GRS makes it possible to optimize the useful life of landfills through the treatment of organic waste and recycling, to encourage waste picker cooperatives and selective collection programs, and to reduce the financial costs of the system as a whole, making it more durable and sustainable.

The implementation of the Circular Economy (CE) requires collaboration between members of society and is influenced by the institutional context. In the Federal District, solid waste management has evolved with the implementation of the Brasília Landfill and the expansion of selective collection, which covers more than 90% of the urban area. However, the quantity and quality of landfilled materials show that current actions are insufficient. This study seeks to answer two questions: (1) what are the challenges, opportunities and strategies for implementing CE in solid waste management according to the perception of social actors? and (2) which solid waste management model can best align the Federal District with the principles of CE? Based on the concept of CE, which aims to extend the value of products and minimize waste, a qualitative study was carried out using document analysis, semi-structured interviews and content analysis. Twelve actors were interviewed, representing key categories. The results indicate the importance of waste picker cooperatives and associations, as well as the articulating role of public authorities. The research suggests a management model inspired by Elinor Ostrom's IAD-Framework, made up of external variables, an arena for action, evaluation criteria and expected results.