Contributions of modularity to the circular economy: A systematic review of literature

In the creation of practices to foster the thinking of the circular economy (CE), modularity can be a facilitator. There are many studies that address modularity and the circular economy individualized, but the integration between the two is still little addressed. This study conducts a systematic review of the literature and aims to identify how modularity can contribute to the circular economy. The data analysis begins with the identification of the main characteristics of the literature that address modularity and circular economy, bringing the evolution of studies over the years, main journals, co-citation of references, co-occurrence of keywords and shows four research clusters linked to modularity and CE, being: conceptualization of modularization, modular design of products, module optimization and product lifecycle. In addition, identifies fifteen benefits of modularity that can contribute to the implementation of strategies for the circular economy and five barriers from the perspective of the circular economy that can inhibit the contribution process. So, it was possible to create an integrative conceptual framework that shows how modularity can contribute to the circular economy. From the results, future research is identified in order to contribute to the transition from a linear economy to a circular economy. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd