Urban Governance Models For Sustainable Cities: Integrating Csr Into Circular Economy Strategies

Abstract

This article presents a systematic review (PRISMA) on urban governance models that integrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) into circular economy strategies for the development of sustainable cities. The search in Scopus and Web of Science, with the keywords urban governance, sustainable cities and circular economy, yielded 15 studies that met the eligibility criteria. Through qualitative synthesis and thematic analysis, the findings show that effective governance operates as a portfolio architecture: public-private-social co-production platforms, economic instruments, and regulatory arrangements that coordinate sectors (construction, waste, energy, food) and scales (neighborhood–city–region). CSR ceases to be peripheral and is integrated into the contractual core of urban management through circular public procurement, material passports, traceability and goals of prevention, reuse and decent employment. Systemic levers (renewable energy and data), land policies to accommodate circular chains, and strategies for discontinuing linear practices are identified. Measurement gaps—recycling-focused indicators—and challenges in institutional capacity and financing persist. It is concluded that the most robust models combine territorial differentiation, material metrics (prevention, repair, recycled content) and continuous institutional learning, making CSR the operational driver of urban circularity. Lines of action are proposed for governments, companies and civil society, and a set of indicators for monitoring and accountability.