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- Trajectories of circular economy in cities: key patterns and emerging pathwaysPublication . Aina, Yusuf; Almulhim, Abdulaziz I.; Salami, Babatunde Abiodun; Swart, Julia; Abubakar, Ismaila Rimi; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Sharifi, AyyoobUrbanisation and escalating resource pressures have intensified the need for systemic approaches to sustainable development, positioning the circular economy (CE) as a critical framework for cities. This study reviews academic literature to examine current trends, challenges, and forward-looking strategies for CE implementation in urban contexts. Using a search process aligned with the PRISMA protocol, 668 peer-reviewed articles were analysed through inductive content analysis. The findings reveal that CE practices in cities are increasingly shaped by global sustainability agendas, particularly in relation to SDGs 9 to 12. The analysis identifies eight thematic clusters that characterise urban CE pathways: urban planning and the built environment, energy and mobility systems, waste and resource management, water and urban agriculture, citizen engagement, governance and regulation, technological innovation, and socio-cultural transformation. A conceptual framework integrating eight thematic clusters is presented, illustrating how cities transition from linear to circular systems through policy alignment, digital innovation, and multisectoral collaboration. Case studies from global urban centres illustrate strategies ranging from smart infrastructure and circular procurement to social inclusion and localised production, all of which enable CE advancement. These findings reinforce the view of CE as a multidimensional approach capable of fostering urban resilience, environmental stewardship, and inclusive economic growth.
- Decarbonising university operations: strategies and challenges for Higher Education InstitutionsPublication . Leal Filho, Walter; Aguiar, Alexandre de Oliveira e; Elahi, Muhammad Manzoor; Azam, Fardous Mohammad Safiul; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Henrique, João Paulino Pires Eustachio; Mazhar, Muhammad Usman; Mazutti, Janaina; Gatto, Andrea; Etxano, Iker; Kounani, Aristea; Aina, Yusuf; Viota, MariaBackground: Universities have significant carbon emissions impact and face pressure to cut their operational carbon emissions around the world. This leads to growing interest of the academic and practice community in effective pathways for carbon reduction within higher education. In this context, the aim of the research is to investigate the strategies for decarbonising university operations and challenges being faced. Drawing from a mixed-method approach, a review of case studies, and a survey involving Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in nearly 40 countries, it explores the interconnectedness of awareness, cultural and political dimensions, internal institutional structures, and technical approaches in achieving decarbonisation goals. Results: The findings underscore awareness initiatives that enhance understanding of decarbonisation among educators and students in universities, and communities. The case studies as a review of experiences from diverse geographical regions illustrate varying strategies for carbon emissions reduction in HEIs, underscoring the adaptability of decarbonisation efforts across contexts. Additionally, cultural and political factors emerge as key determinants, requiring tailored strategies to navigate diverse contexts and garner public support. Finally, institutional structures, including financial constraints and regulatory barriers, and ageing infraestructure are identified as key barriers to effective decarbonisation efforts. Conclusions: The novelty of the paper resides on the fact that it highlights the need for integrating decarbonisation goals into institutional governance and planning mechanisms is essential for achieving long-term goal of net zero carbon and aligning with the global UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study advocates for a holistic approach that considers social, economic, environmental and institutional dimensions in advancing decarbonisation within HEIs, rather than treating emissions as a purely technical issue. The effectiveness of decarbonisation measures is dependent on breaking down chronic structural and financial factors in the implementation, and is substantially supported by institutional practices that promote the engagement of all stakeholders and an open, transparent measurement of its impact. By addressing barriers, HEIs can pave the way for a sustainable and low carbon future while serving as catalysts for broader societal change.