Converging concepts of sustainability and supply chain networks: a systematic literature review approach

In recent years, companies have been under increasing pressure from consumers, grassroots and community organizations, governments, and shareholders to develop and practice sustainable business practices. Academic and corporate interest in sustainable supply chain management has risen considerably in recent years. This can be seen in the number of papers published. This paper aims to systematically investigate the discipline of supply chain management (SCM) within the context of sustainability. The two concepts are increasingly aligned, and sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) represents an evolving field where they explicitly interact. The study proposes a conceptual framework to classify various factors along the triple bottom-line pillars of sustainability issues in the context of supply chains. The findings indicate that the existing literature is primarily focused on individual sustainability and supply chain dimensions rather than taking a more integrated approach. Also, the economic benefits of developing a sustainable supply chain for an organization are discussed in addition to specific features of sustainable supply chains and limitations of existing research; this should stimulate further research. Our analysis revealed trends and gaps, allowing us to create a solid agenda for additional SSCM research.