How Circular Economy Can Contribute to the Sustainability of Megaprojects: An Overview of Research Hotspots and Developing a Research Agenda

Megaprojects with high levels of complexity and innovation face many sustainability challenges, including environmental concerns, economic resources, and social impacts over decades. Due to the large scale of these projects and their significant consequences for the communities, scientific production focusing on different aspects of megaprojects has been increasingly developed. This research aims to first, present a general overview of the main research themes and hotspots within the literature on megaprojects, and second, provide the potential of the circular economy (CE) in supporting the megaprojects. To do so, a systematic review using keyword co-occurrence analysis was conducted on the megaproject scientific production. The results revealed five major research themes in megaproject-related research, including (i) construction and built environment, (ii) mega events and urban environment, (iii) risk management, (iv) project management, and (v) sustainability and governance. Moreover, challenges and prospects of incorporating the CE in megaprojects were provided and discussed. The findings shed light on the body of knowledge of megaproject research and can support policymakers, officials, and practitioners involved in the megaprojects toward the CE transition.