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Background Publications examining the relationship between the circular economy and green growth have increased markedly; however, the literature remains fragmented regarding how specific circular strategies translate into measurable green growth outcomes, particularly in emerging and developing economies. Methods The study systematically reviews the literature on the circular economy-green growth nexus, focusing on the twelve R- framework, circular business models as implementation pathways, and enabling policy tools/ instruments. A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses guidelines, synthesizing evidence from 66 peer-reviewed articles on the circular economy and green growth (2011–2024). Results The findings indicate that green growth is strongly supported when circular strategies prioritize upstream prevention and mid-stream life extension, for example, refuse, redesign, repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing, complemented by business models such as product as service, sharing economy, and industrial symbiosis that reduce material throughput while creating new sources of value. The study also revealed that policy instruments such as extended producer responsibility and green public procurement emerged as key demand-shaping infrastructure-enabling levers that can stabilize reverse flows and de-risk investment. Conclusion The paper advances the conceptual foundation of circular economy-green growth linkages, highlighting implications for emerging economies where informality, financing constraints, and infrastructure gaps shape feasible circular pathways and policy mixes. Systematic review registration https://www.prisma-statement.org/citing-prisma-2020 .