Leveraging industry 4.0 technologies for sustainable supply chain management: A systematic review

Abstract

Integrating sustainability into supply chain management is both a challenge and a strategic necessity. This review aims to bridge the gap in the literature by examining how Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies can advance sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). By systematically analyzing 231 studies, this paper identifies major technological barriers, including eco-efficiency deficits, data privacy concerns, and compatibility issues, that hinder SSCM adoption. It systematically explores six key I4.0 technologies—Blockchain, Big Data Analytics, IoT, Additive Manufacturing, Cyber-Physical Systems, and Cloud Computing—demonstrating their capabilities to overcome these challenges and achieve sustainable outcomes. Furthermore, this review highlights critical research gaps and proposes a detailed roadmap for future exploration, emphasizing the development of integration frameworks, advanced data management, and the exploration of emerging technologies like AI and augmented reality. By offering a strategic framework on I4.0′s potential to drive sustainable practices, this study provides actionable insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to leverage I4.0 technologies for sustainable innovation.