The transition toward a circular economy requires greater consumer participation in sustainable consumption practices such as recycling, reusing, repairing, and sharing products. While prior research has primarily focused on environmental attitudes and sustainability values, limited attention has been given to the cognitive capabilities that drive circular consumption behavior. This study examines the influence of Cognitive Intelligence on Circular Consumption Behavior through the mediating roles of Resource Consciousness and Sustainable Value Perception, while also investigating the moderating effect of Environmental Literacy. Drawing upon Cognitive Information Processing Theory, Value-Belief-Norm Theory, and the Theory of Planned Behavior, a conceptual framework was developed and empirically tested using data collected from 422 consumers in Tunisia. The findings reveal that Cognitive Intelligence significantly enhances Resource Consciousness, Sustainable Value Perception, and Circular Consumption Behavior. Both Resource Consciousness and Sustainable Value Perception were found to significantly mediate the relationship between Cognitive Intelligence and Circular Consumption Behavior. Furthermore, Environmental Literacy significantly strengthens the relationship between Sustainable Value Perception and Circular Consumption Behavior, although its moderating effect on the Resource Consciousness–Circular Consumption Behavior relationship was not supported. The study contributes to sustainability and circular economy literature by identifying Cognitive Intelligence as a critical antecedent of sustainable consumption and by explaining the cognitive mechanisms through which consumers engage in circular economy practices. The findings provide valuable implications for policymakers, educators, and businesses seeking to promote sustainable consumer behavior and accelerate the transition toward a circular society.