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Exploring Industry 4.0’s Role in Sustainable Supply Chains: Perspectives from a Bibliometric Review

Author

Listed:
  • Federico Briatore

    (Mechanical, Industrial and Transport Engineer Department (D.I.M.E.), University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy)

  • Francesca Vanni

    (Mechanical, Industrial and Transport Engineer Department (D.I.M.E.), University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy)

  • Marco Tullio Mosca

    (Mechanical, Industrial and Transport Engineer Department (D.I.M.E.), University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy)

  • Roberto Nicola Mosca

    (Mechanical, Industrial and Transport Engineer Department (D.I.M.E.), University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy)

  • Fabio Fruggiero

    (Department of Engineering, Industrial Systems, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy)

  • Francesco Mancusi

    (Department of Engineering, Industrial Systems, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy)

Abstract

Background: Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies have transformed supply chain (SC) logistics and production. However, their environmental impact, particularly on CO 2 emissions and carbon footprints, remains underexplored. This study examines the impact of I4.0 tools on SCs sustainability, focusing on reducing carbon footprints. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted in October 2023 to quantitatively evaluate the scientific literature, examining publication characteristics to assess current research and forecast future trends. The Scopus database was utilized with specific filters to identify studies on the impact of I4.0 technologies in SC domains on sustainability, focusing on CO 2 emissions and carbon footprint reduction. VOSviewer software version 1.6.15 was used to analyze selected papers, revealing key keyword clusters and relationships. Results: Five clusters were identified, offering insights for supply chain managers and highlighting links between I4.0 and CO 2 reduction in supply chains: “LCA towards zero carbon”, “Supply chain carbon footprint”, “Risk and decarbonization analysis”, “Industry 4.0 and stochastic models for sustainability”, and “Biodiversity and environmental impact”. Key findings emphasize the strong connection between LCA, carbon footprint analysis, emission control, and the role of I4.0 technologies like blockchain and IoT in reducing emissions. Conclusions: This study highlights the environmental benefits of I4.0 in SC management, supporting global decarbonization goals.

Suggested Citation

  • Federico Briatore & Francesca Vanni & Marco Tullio Mosca & Roberto Nicola Mosca & Fabio Fruggiero & Francesco Mancusi, 2025. "Exploring Industry 4.0’s Role in Sustainable Supply Chains: Perspectives from a Bibliometric Review," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 9(1), pages 1-18, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:9:y:2025:i:1:p:26-:d:1588178
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Culot, Giovanna & Nassimbeni, Guido & Orzes, Guido & Sartor, Marco, 2020. "Behind the definition of Industry 4.0: Analysis and open questions," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 226(C).
    2. Ravigné, E. & Da Costa, P., 2021. "Economic and environmental performances of natural gas for heavy trucks: A case study on the French automotive industry supply chain," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 149(C).
    3. Andrew Kirby, 2023. "Exploratory Bibliometrics: Using VOSviewer as a Preliminary Research Tool," Publications, MDPI, vol. 11(1), pages 1-14, February.
    4. Saverio Ferraro & Alessandra Cantini & Leonardo Leoni & Filippo De Carlo, 2023. "Sustainable Logistics 4.0: A Study on Selecting the Best Technology for Internal Material Handling," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(9), pages 1-22, April.
    5. Leonardo Leoni & Alessandra Cantini & Filippo De Carlo & Marcello Salvio & Chiara Martini & Claudia Toro & Fabrizio Martini, 2021. "Energy-Saving Technology Opportunities and Investments of the Italian Foundry Industry," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(24), pages 1-29, December.
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