Energy Management Systems (ISO 50001), carbon neutrality, circular economy and the sustainable development goals: A bibliometric and systematic review

Organizations are under increasing pressure to improve energy performance while simultaneously advancing net-zero commitments and circular economy transitions. However, the existing ISO 50001 literature remains fragmented, with limited integration between Energy Management System (EnMS) practices, decarbonization pathways, resource circularity, and SDG-oriented outcomes, creating a need to clarify how ISO 50001 can function as a strategic platform for low-carbon and circular transformation. Therefore, this study investigates the global research landscape of ISO 50001, examining how EnMS activities and sub-activities drive energy performance improvement, decarbonization, and alignment with the United Nations Sustainability Goals (SDGs). A hybrid methodology was employed, combining bibliometric mapping with a systematic review governed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, analyzing Scopus-indexed literature published between 2015-2025. Bibliometric analysis was conducted to delineate the intellectual framework, thematic evolution, geographic distribution, and major research trends of energy management, while a qualitative synthesis of 111 articles was performed to extract key ISO 50001-based EnMS activities and implementation practices. The bibliometric results highlight the leading journals, thematic clusters, research topics, and analytical approaches in ISO 50001 literature. The systematic synthesis identifies recurring links between energy planning, performance measurement, operational control, management review, organizational capability, and low-carbon management practices. Building on these findings, this study contributes to existing body of knowledge by proposing a conceptual multilayer integrated ISO 50001, net zero and circular economy model which offers actionable strategic insights for researchers, energy practitioners, and policymakers seeking to enhance ISO 50001 implementation for energy efficiency, resource retention, climate mitigation and sustainable development.

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