A Systematic Literature Review on Digital Twins in Circular Supply Chain Management

This study presents a systematic literature review exploring the role of Digital Twins (DTs) in Circular Supply Chain Management (CSCM). Employing a structured methodology based on the PRISMA protocol and analyzed through the Theory, Context, Characteristics, and Method (TCCM) framework, the review synthesizes 109 peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024. Using bibliographic coupling, the research identifies six thematic clusters: (1) Integration of DT in Supply Chain; (2) DT and Industry 4.0; (3) Big Data, AI, and Circular Economy; (4) Risk Management and Supply Chain Resilience; (5) Additive Manufacturing and Spare Parts Logistics; and (6) Metaverse and Smart Factory Operations. Additionally, the study categorizes 86 unique theories applied in the DT-CSCM literature, with Resource-Based Theory, Complexity Theory, and Control Theory among the most cited. Key contributions include clarifying the intellectual structure of DT-CSCM research, highlighting emerging research directions, and offering practical recommendations for industry practitioners and policymakers seeking to enhance supply chain sustainability and digital transformation. These deeply meaningful findings considerably improve our comprehension of the rapid pace of technological improvement in DT and its significant implications for the development of resilient, sustainable supply chains.