Mapping the evolution of industry 4.0 and sustainability research: A comprehensive bibliometric study

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a notable expansion and increased interest in the realms of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and sustainability, capturing the attention of scholars and practitioners on a global scale. This research conducted an extensive review of 256 research papers published in 97 Scopus-indexed journals between 2016 and 2022, also examining the growth of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and sustainability. Data was collected from the Scopus database using relevant keywords, VOSviewer and Biblioshiny tools were employed for bibliometric analysis, encompassing citation trends, authorship patterns, and keyword analysis. The findings of this study reveal a surge in literature since 2016, with noteworthy keywords such as sustainability, industry 4.0, circular economy, industrial development, and decision-making gaining prominence. This study offers a comprehensive evaluation of existing scholarly work in the field of sustainability reporting, highlighting emerging trends and proposing future research directions in I4.0 and corporate sustainability. Furthermore, it provides practical implications for organizations, policymakers, and stakeholders, bridging the gap between theory and practice and enhancing the practical value of research.