Fostering Sustainable Manufacturing in Africa: A Sustainable Supply Chain Management Framework for a Green Future

Abstract

Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) emerges as a vital catalyst for inclusive growth and sustainable development, particularly in emerging economies where the manufacturing sector is central to economic progress. This study offers an in-depth analysis of the current research landscape on SSCM in the context of developing nations, outlining key theoretical frameworks and advocating for a solid conceptual foundation alongside a structured agenda for future research initiatives. This study employs a structured literature review technique to analyze 92 published articles indexed by Scopus from 2013 to 2024, revealing a burgeoning trend in the subject of global supply chains in developing nations. The analysis identifies key keywords such as “sustainable supply chain management,” “manufacturing industries,” “inclusive growth,” and “supply chain and sustainability,” and develops a conceptual model that elucidates how SSCM practices can be effectively integrated into manufacturing sectors to facilitate equitable growth and enhance business competitiveness. This work’s novelty lies in employing a systematic literature review to develop a holistic SSCM conceptual framework constructed upon six primary drivers: business model innovation, inclusive SSCM, corporate governance and leadership, technological and innovation capabilities, policy and regulatory environment, and circular feedback. This model addresses the ambiguity surrounding SSCM and inclusive growth, providing a robust foundation for future research and performance measurement. This study contributes to the field by providing a practical and theoretically grounded framework for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to implement impactful and effective SSCM initiatives in developing nations’ manufacturing sectors to promote inclusive growth and sustainable development.

1. Introduction

Over the past four decades, the manufacturing sector in emerging economies has become increasingly competitive in the global market, driven by the 1987 Brundtland report. It defines sustainable development as “meeting present needs without compromising future generations” (Chang et al., 2017; Hajian & Kashani, 2021). To maintain their relevance in this dynamic environment, large manufacturing firms must prioritize sustainable performance by adopting green manufacturing strategies. Nowadays, the global movement toward sustainability, led by the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is pressuring manufacturers, especially in Africa’s large manufacturing sector, to reduce their environmental impact (Girón et al., 2021; Alyahya et al., 2022). Extensive research on the emerging economies shows that integrating sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) into manufacturing operations has great potential to boost economic growth, create jobs, and promote environmental and social responsibility in the industrial sector (Esfahbodi et al., 2016; Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Oubrahim & Sefiani, 2023). Moreover, SSCM is recognized as a powerful tool to cut emissions, lower energy costs, and generate significant value for businesses and society alike. The research on SSCM has been proliferating for the last two decades and still needs further insights for future studies.

Although SSCM’s potential for Africa is clear, there is a notable gap in research regarding how to transform general principles into practical, context-specific frameworks. Existing research on sustainable manufacturing in Africa is fragmented and lacks coordination, often failing at the planning stage (Girón et al., 2021). The disjointed supply chains and poor communication between manufacturers and suppliers have been identified as major obstacles, along with manufacturers’ reluctance to fully incorporate sustainability into the manufacturing value chain (Baig et al., 2020; Ahmadi-Gh & Bello-Pintado, 2022). Additionally, the current literature often neglects the significance of SSCM in boosting growth and competitiveness in the sector. Therefore, no comprehensive SSCM model exists to guide African manufacturers in integrating sustainability and building effective supplier partnerships. Future research should focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by African manufacturing and developing tailored solutions to promote sustainable growth and a greener future.

Govindan et al. (2021) corroborate these findings, emphasizing the crucial role of effective collaboration between manufacturers and suppliers in fostering sustainable practices. They argue that strong, collaborative relationships are crucial for achieving a competitive advantage and enhancing supply chain performance. Manufacturers’ collaboration in developing nations remains inappropriately underutilized, with a focus on individual profit overshadowing crucial environmental and social benefits (Nazir et al., 2024; Bour et al., 2024; Bour et al., 2025). In light of this, government intervention through supportive policies that incentivize and enforce manufacturer–supplier commitments to sustainability is desirable. But again, Africa’s limited environmental budgets hinder transitioning to SSCM practices in the manufacturing sector and worsen climate change impacts (H. Gupta et al., 2020; Oubrahim & Sefiani, 2023).

Aditi and Jha (2024) argue that manufacturers often struggle to meet ESG standards because their suppliers fail to adhere to the required sustainability benchmarks. Neglecting environmental and social impacts hinders sustainable development. Sustainable solutions require a holistic approach that considers both ecological and social well-being. The study underscores the limitations of traditional SCM models, which often prioritize short-term cost optimization over long-term sustainable partnerships. Notwithstanding the surge in earlier surveys on SSCM, a strong theoretical and conceptual foundation remains essential. Significant opportunities for further research exist, waiting to be explored.

This study presents a systematic literature review analyzing emerging trends in SSCM within the manufacturing sector. Employing a rigorous PRISMA methodology, we examined Scopus-indexed, peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2013 and October 2024, focusing on research incorporating keywords such as “sustainable supply chain management,” “inclusive growth,” and “sustainable manufacturing.” This yielded 92 articles, which were analyzed to identify key themes, research gaps, and emerging trends related to SSCM and inclusive growth. The analysis integrates existing theoretical frameworks, including stakeholder theory, which posits that a firm’s success hinges on effectively managing the diverse needs and expectations of all stakeholders (Valentinov, 2023). Additionally, we build upon prior scholarly contributions in the continuum of sustainable manufacturing (Alayón et al., 2017; Hami et al., 2019; Ibrahim et al., 2019; Machado et al., 2019) to develop a conceptual framework for SSCM and inclusive growth in large-scale manufacturing.

This study aims to identify key gaps in the existing literature concerning the challenges and opportunities for SSCM in developing countries, thereby stimulating future research. Many existing studies tend to focus on developed nations, often overlooking the unique socio-economic, cultural, and infrastructural contexts of African countries (Machado et al., 2019). The limitations of existing research on the African context, arising from inconsistent regulatory enforcement, necessitate a systematic literature review to identify research gaps and subsequently inform a contextually relevant future research agenda. Consistent with earlier conclusions, Alzubi and Akkerman (2022) disclose that while sustainability is acknowledged, effective strategies for engaging diverse stakeholders beyond superficial consultation remain largely unexplored, hindering truly collaborative and impactful initiatives. Current scholarship on sustainable manufacturing in Africa inadequately addresses the critical role of robust stakeholder engagement. A systematic literature review will synthesize extant research and provide a framework for collaboration and guiding future research on this subject in developing African nations.

The burgeoning field of sustainable manufacturing, evidenced by a recent surge in publications (Machado et al., 2019, necessitates a more nuanced understanding of its intersection with Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM), particularly within the African context. While existing literature reviews address SSCM broadly (Govindan et al., 2021; Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Averina et al., 2022; Bozzano et al., 2021; Córdova-Aguirre & Ramón-Jerónimo, 2024; Nazir et al., 2024) and explore green manufacturing’s environmental contributions (Baig et al., 2020; Schneider et al., 2024; Bonfanti et al., 2023; Bour et al., 2023; Fahimnia et al., 2015), a critical gap remains in the integration of SSCM practices within these discussions, especially concerning methodological approaches. Furthermore, the predominantly empirical nature of existing research, coupled with a relative scarcity of comprehensive literature reviews synthesizing findings from the last two decades, hinders the development of robust policy implications and future research directions. This oversight is particularly acute in the African context, where the influence of informal economies and inconsistent regulatory frameworks necessitates a dedicated investigation into the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the intersection of SSCM and sustainable manufacturing within developing nations’ unique economic and social landscapes (Girón et al., 2021). This study directly addresses this gap, offering a comprehensive synthesis to inform policy and practice and stimulate future research focused on enhancing environmental performance and competitiveness within the African manufacturing sector.

In today’s interconnected world, SSCM has gained prominence for its effectiveness in helping multinational corporations advance sustainability initiatives, both for societal legitimacy and competitive advantage (Abdelmeguid et al., 2024). Sustainable practices are crucial for mitigating the negative environmental and social impacts of rapid economic growth and population expansion, particularly within the manufacturing sector of emerging economies (Hussain et al., 2024). Successful SSCM adoption will not only bolster competitiveness but also unlock new opportunities for sustainable development, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth and environmental responsibility (Dewi & Hermanto, 2022; S. Gupta et al., 2022; Watz & Hallstedt, 2022). As a result, developing nations are actively seeking solutions that balance economic growth with ESG principles (Hussain et al., 2024; Tsang et al., 2023). Even though there is evidence of a growing interest in this area, a comprehensive understanding of its adoption in the developing nations’ unique economic and social landscape remains elusive (Girón et al., 2021) A synthesis of existing research focusing on the specific SSCM models within the manufacturing sector is needed.

The study draws upon the stakeholders’ theory. The theory assumes that a company’s success is tied to its ability to manage the expectations and needs of various stakeholders, not just shareholders, and that these stakeholders exert influence on the company’s sustainability efforts (Siems et al., 2023). To place it into perspective, SSCM practices foster a collaborative ecosystem, allowing organizations to optimize operations and reduce waste (Aditi & Jha, 2024; Govindan et al., 2021, 2023; Yan et al., 2016). This interconnectedness empowers manufacturers to minimize waste and reduce their environmental footprint, paving the way for a more sustainable future (Zahran, 2024). The implications of this shift are clear in ultimately achieving greater resilience and sustainability within the manufacturing landscape (Chen et al., 2023; Schöggl et al., 2023). The article asserts that a new way of thinking is crucial for achieving a truly sustainable and equitable future for developing nations. It underscores the urgent need for a deeper understanding of how SSCM practices can contribute to inclusive growth, bridging the knowledge gap that currently exists. This research aims to answer the following primary research question: What are the key drivers influencing the adoption of sustainable supply chain practices within the developing nations’ manufacturing sector for inclusive growth?

The paper is organized as follows: Section 2 presents the theoretical underpinnings of sustainable manufacturing and a review of the SSCM conceptual framework, while Section 3 presents a comprehensive, structured literature review of previous scholarly works drawn from top journals indexed in the Scopus Database models. Section 4 will analyze key themes and studies related to SSCM and inclusive growth. Finally, Section 5 will present the research findings, contributions, and implications, as well as identify existing gaps to guide future research directions.

2. Terminologies and Theoretical Foundations

2.1. Sustainability Definition

The term “sustainability” has been interpreted in various ways, from a philosophical perspective to a multi-dimensional business management tool (Lemoun et al., 2024). Sustainability is defined as a novel approach involving using resources to meet present needs without jeopardizing future generations’ ability to do the same. While early initiatives primarily focused on environmental issues, the concept is increasingly embracing a triple-bottom-line approach, considering environmental, economic, and social dimensions. This transition to sustainability has presented significant challenges in practical application due to its inherent ambiguity. Previous work of (Hami et al., 2019; Urbaniak et al., 2021) posit that sustainability involves building resilient organizations through integrated economic, social, and environmental systems.

2.2. Sustainable Supply Chain Management Concept

Sustainable supply chain management is a vital strategy that helps companies optimize long-term advantages across all three dimensions of sustainability, following the principles of the TBL. Several sources highlight SSCM’s multifaceted nature in contributing to ESG principles. Govindan et al. (2021) define SSCM as integrating sustainability practices throughout the entire product lifecycle, considering ESG factors. While Gualandris et al. (2014) go into further detail about this, describing SSCM practices like life cycle assessment, responsible material selection and sourcing, eco-efficient manufacturing processes, waste management, and stakeholder engagement. Mani et al. (2016) uncover SSCM as a method that supports incorporating sustainability concepts into supply chains. The core idea is balancing economic benefits with environmental and social needs during a product’s lifecycle. The main implication is that manufacturing firms must incorporate environmental considerations into their growth and profit strategies (Bour et al., 2024).

2.3. Stakeholder and Institutional Theories Driving Supply Chain Management

Schwab (2021) champion stakeholder capitalism as a powerful response to global challenges, urging businesses to embrace the “3Ps”—progress, people, and planet—in their pursuit of sustainability and operational excellence. This approach, rooted in stakeholder theory, recognizes that tackling climate change and broader sustainability issues demands collaboration (Valentinov, 2023). It necessitates engaging governments, civil society, corporations, and the international community. Crucially, this collaborative model extends beyond the factory floor, encompassing suppliers, customers, and the very environment within which supply chains operate. Their work highlights the importance of considering diverse stakeholder interests in environmental decision-making and sustainable business practices, a critical concern for this paper. Hence, this framework, grounded in stakeholder theory, strongly encourages the transition of manufacturing companies to sustainable practices. It mandates a holistic approach to SCM, prioritizing economic, environmental, and social sustainability while acknowledging the diverse influences and impacts of stakeholders.

Institutional theory, meanwhile, highlights the influence of societal norms and regulations on organizational behaviour. The increasing pressure from regulatory bodies, consumer activism, and investor expectations for ESG performance pushes businesses to adopt SSCM practices. In summary, this framework emphasizes the critical role of integrating ESG factors into the mainstream supply chain practices to drive the transition toward sustainable manufacturing. It demonstrates how the influence of each stakeholder contributes to this transformation. Together, these theories provide a compelling rationale for integrating sustainability into SCM, demonstrating that responsible business practices are not only ethically sound but also essential for long-term success in a changing world.

2.4. Developing a Holistic SSCM Conceptual Framework

Sustainable manufacturing demands a unified approach. Stakeholder and institutional theories both underscore the necessity for all supply chain actors—from manufacturers to suppliers and customers—to adhere to environmental regulations, cultural norms, and ethical beliefs. The manufacturing individual strategies are insufficient; a holistic, integrated framework is crucial (Berkes, 2016). This framework must empower companies to navigate trade-offs, fostering win–win scenarios that prioritize ecological and social value alongside economic gains, creating truly sustainable business models. However, merely listing drivers of the SSCM model is insufficient. We need to delve deeper into how these specific drivers contribute to the adoption of sustainable practices in large organizations, which is the primary focus of this paper. It is important to note that these concepts are not isolated but interconnected. Each concept requires specific parameters and practices, and they work together synergistically to promote truly effective SSCM. This interconnectedness provides a solid foundation for developing a holistic and robust conceptual framework for SSCM.

Our comprehensive conceptual framework for SSCM is built upon a rigorous review of existing scholarship, identifying key themes, and guiding our data analysis. This framework directly supports the development of sustainable business models and enhanced environmental awareness (Córdova-Aguirre & Ramón-Jerónimo, 2024), strengthening the manufacturing sector’s resilience against current challenges. An integrated SSCM model, designed for ecologically friendly manufacturing in a globally competitive environment, requires a robust framework built upon four fundamental pillars. These pillars emphasize the interdependence in creating a dynamic environment conducive to the implementation of SSCM practices in organizations (Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Fahimnia et al., 2015; Silvestre et al., 2018).

The four primary pillars for sustainable manufacturing and the SSCM model include.

(1)

Socio-Economic Sustainability: This pillar integrates social responsibility (fair wages, safe working conditions, community engagement) with economic viability (efficient operations, cost optimization, value creation for all stakeholders).

(2)

Environmental Stewardship: This pillar prioritizes environmental sustainability (minimizing emissions, waste, and resource consumption; promoting renewable energy and sustainable materials; responsible waste management).

(3)

Technological Advancement: This pillar emphasizes leveraging appropriate technology (improving efficiency, transparency, traceability; adopting advanced technologies where feasible and cost-effective) to enhance both environmental and socio-economic outcomes.

(4)

Governance and Collaboration: This pillar focuses on regulatory compliance, transparent governance structures, and collaborative partnerships among suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, consumers, NGOs, and governments.

Next, we will explore the interplay between business model innovation and sustainability, and examine how these factors interact within the SCM system.

Figure 1 illustrates the key pillars driving sustainable manufacturing when the SSCM framework is effectively implemented in the manufacturing sector. The interconnectedness of these four pillars is particularly crucial for the transition to sustainable manufacturing in Africa, where unique challenges and opportunities exist.

Social-Economic Sustainability. This driver focuses on transforming business operations to align with sustainability principles, emphasizing shared value creation, sustainable business models, and the adoption of circular economy principles (Bonfanti et al., 2023). This aligns with the “Triple Bottom Line” approach, which emphasizes ESG principles (Hussain et al., 2024; Tsang et al., 2023). The proposed SSCM model goes beyond traditional profit-driven models by incorporating sustainability performance and sustainable business models that benefit a wider range of stakeholders. This shift towards shared value creation, sustainable business models, and circular economy principles is crucial for moving away from unsustainable practices like carbon-intensive production and poor waste management (Abdelmeguid et al., 2024; Blasi et al., 2021; Kristoffersen et al., 2020). This model recognizes the growing need for long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of global uncertainties (Roy et al., 2022), while promoting inclusive growth by addressing inequality. Socio-economic sustainability advancement also advocates for including fair wages and a safe working environment. The move is not only ethically imperative but also vital for attracting and retaining skilled labour, thereby improving economic viability within often resource-constrained environments.

Previous models have often focused on environmental sustainability but have not sufficiently integrated the social dimensions of inclusivity (Alzubi & Akkerman, 2022). This model recognizes the need to create a more inclusive supply chain through practices like fair wages, responsible sourcing, and partnerships with corporate firms. According to Jum’a et al. (2021), pursuing SSCM practices aligns with the needs of the modern world. This conceptual framework not only enhances the organization’s reputation but also contributes to waste reduction, innovation, profit generation, and building a competitive advantage. However, the lack of consistent definitions and ambiguous usage of SSCM and inclusive growth hinders accurate impact measurement, effectiveness comparison, and the development of sustainable business models and innovation capabilities (Schöggl et al., 2023).

Corporate Governance and Collaboration. Strong regulatory compliance and governance frameworks, adapted to the specific context of African nations, are essential to ensure environmental sustainability and build trust with international partners, attracting foreign direct investment and supporting economic growth (Moussa et al., 2024). Corporate governance and leadership strategy are key drivers of SSCM adoption, essential for sustainability initiatives that involve employee participation and empowerment (Tsang et al., 2023; Moussa et al., 2024). Leaders must foster a culture of continuous improvement, integrating sustainability into performance metrics and incentives. By adhering to these principles, manufacturing organizations can scale sustainability, generate long-term value, and create a positive impact (Ramanathan et al., 2023; Schneider et al., 2024).

Research has shown that a supportive policy and regulatory environment is critical for driving the adoption of sustainable supply chains and achieving inclusive growth in the manufacturing sector (Ibrahim et al., 2020; Rizki et al., 2022). This strategy may involve, among others, financial incentives, training, and tax breaks to companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability (H. Gupta et al., 2020; Waqas et al., 2018). Thus, transitioning to sustainable business frameworks is no longer a choice but a priority, as several stakeholder groups expect manufacturing corporations to establish a strong commitment to sustainability (Tebaldi et al., 2018; Seuring & Müller, 2008). This shift towards a more proactive policy approach is crucial for driving the transition to a more sustainable and equitable future (Liu et al., 2024). Despite this, the inadequate government support, stemming from a lack of sustainable finance and a prioritization of traditional supply chain concepts focused on cost reduction, customer satisfaction, and profit maximization, remains challenging in emerging countries (Bour et al., 2024; Aditi & Jha, 2024).

Past research also shows that corporate governance and leadership committed to ESG principles are critical for driving sustainable practices (Khan et al., 2021). Existing theories like the stakeholders’ theory have emphasized these principles (Roscoe et al., 2020); nonetheless, this model goes further by emphasizing the connection between good governance and inclusive growth. Grounded in the conclusions from previous surveys (Fahimnia et al., 2015; Yadav et al., 2020), our model attempts to fill in a significant vacuum in earlier research that overlooked the interdependencies between social, economic, and environmental concerns.

Technological Innovation: Recent research highlights the significant impact of technological advancements, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, on corporate supply chain management, particularly in achieving sustainability objectives (Schöggl et al., 2023; Vacchi et al., 2024). The digitization of supply chains has been shown to enhance visibility, efficiency, and resilience (Souza et al., 2017; Tarigan et al., 2021). The existing literature highlights the critical need for manufacturing sectors in emerging economies, especially in developing nations, to adopt green technological strategies. This transition encompasses the integration of digital technologies and the establishment of collaborative innovation partnerships. These approaches are essential for enhancing operational efficiency, minimizing environmental footprints, and fostering the development of sustainable solutions within the industry (Sun et al., 2021).

Although there is an increasing amount of empirical evidence that highlights the influence of technological innovation on SCM (Schöggl et al., 2023; Vacchi et al., 2024), significant knowledge gaps continue to exist in this field. Considering this, the proposed model utilizes technology to improve efficiency, lower expenses, and optimize resource use. Our model aligns with the findings of earlier academic research, which suggests that by integrating green technologies such as AI, blockchain, and green manufacturing into the conventional SCM framework within the manufacturing industry, large companies can enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and lower their carbon emissions, promoting a more sustainable and competitive environment (Yan et al., 2016). This holistic model focuses on technological initiatives aimed at advancing sustainability through the adoption of SSCM practices, with a particular emphasis on the manufacturing sector.

A conceptual framework for SSCM has been developed to integrate the critical drivers of the SSCM model, including corporate governance and leadership, inclusive Supply Chain Management, Corporate Governance and Leadership, Innovation and Technology Capabilities, Business Model Innovation and Sustainability, and Circular economy. The framework illustrates the interplay among the established drivers as explained in the model, grounded in the primary aim of providing a foundation for future studies and organizational performance evaluations. The model holds relevance for emerging economies experiencing rapid economic growth and population expansion, which are often associated with unsustainable practices in the manufacturing sector (Ghaithan et al., 2023; Jain & Kalapurackal, 2023; Savastano et al., 2019).

3. Methodology and Scope

3.1. Data Search Strategy

This study adopts the systematic literature review methodology advocated by Saunders et al. (2012), employing a rigorous keyword-driven search of reputable databases to identify and analyze relevant literature. This approach, consistent with the objectives of systematic review as outlined by Tranfield et al. (2003), serves to illuminate existing research gaps and inform a future research agenda. The literature search was restricted to journals indexed in the Scopus database. The study was motivated by Scopus database’s extensive coverage of peer-reviewed literature across various disciplines, which provides a robust platform for identifying relevant and high-quality research for our review (Tseng et al., 2019). While utilizing the rigorous indexing of Scopus, the study acknowledges potential limitations arising from the exclusion of journals indexed in other databases (WoS, EBSCO, DOAJ). This decision prioritized minimizing data redundancy, given the significant overlap of high-impact factor journals across these platforms.

To ensure the relevance and quality of the research, specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, employing a two-step structured literature review method as outlined by Seuring and Müller (2008) and Denyer and Tranfield (2009). Focusing on recent advancements in SSCM models within the manufacturing sector, the search encompassed abstracts, keywords, and titles of journal articles indexed in the Scopus Database between 2013 and 2014, for 11 years. Data was last updated in September 2024, meticulously identifying journals and gathering relevant publications. We aimed to capture a comprehensive overview of the evolving recent research trends in SSCM on the drivers of SSCM practices, sustainable businesses, and their connection to sustainability performance. In addition, to ensure a focused and relevant dataset, the search was narrowed to English-published articles within the specific study areas of business, management, and accounting, as well as economics, econometrics, and finance. This approach ensures that the selected articles provide a robust and relevant foundation for understanding the relationship between SSCM practices and inclusive growth (Felsberger & Reiner, 2020; Parolin et al., 2024; Savastano et al., 2019), particularly within the context of developing nations.

3.2. Delimitations and the Search for the Literature

The paper aims to delve into how the current sustainable business models incorporate the SSCM concept to drive sustainability, especially in the manufacturing sector in developing nations. Thus, articles providing empirical evidence, case studies, or conceptual frameworks related to SSCM were analyzed. Those solely focused on specific industries or lacking a clear link to sustainability performance or SCM were excluded. To ensure the quality and methodological rigour of our systematic review, we implemented a comprehensive approach to data screening.

We began with a keyword search, combining terms such as “Sustainable supply chains” AND “inclusive growth” AND “sustainability.”

(TITLE-ABS-KEY (sustainable AND supply AND chain AND management) OR TITLE-ABS-KEY (sustainable AND practices) AND TITLE-ABS-KEY (manufacturing AND companies) AND TITLE-ABS-KEY (sustainability)) AND PUBYEAR > 2012 AND PUBYEAR < 2025 AND (LIMIT-TO (PUBSTAGE, “final”)) AND (LIMIT-TO (LANGUAGE, “English”)) AND (LIMIT-TO (DOCTYPE, “ar”)) AND (LIMIT-TO (SRCTYPE, “j”)) AND (LIMIT-TO (OA, “all”)) AND (LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, “ENVI”) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, “BUSI”) OR LIMIT-TO (SUBJAREA, “ECON”))

To establish a strong foundation for the review and develop a comprehensive SSCM conceptual framework, a systematic literature review approach was employed (Figure 2). The study deliberately chose journals known for their significant contributions to both sustainable supply chain and sustainability research (Rizki et al., 2022; Tarigan et al., 2021; Vidal et al., 2024). This ensured that the selected articles reflected current scholarship and provided a robust source of information for crafting a relevant and insightful conceptual framework.

3.3. Methodological Rigour and Research Process

This study employed a rigorous methodological approach to identify key themes, trends, and research gaps in SSCM. A systematic literature review, utilizing predefined keywords and search filters, ensured a comprehensive and unbiased selection of articles. The initial search yielded 984 review articles, which were then narrowed down based on language, publication date, journal type, and discipline, resulting in a final selection of 92 open-access articles published in environmental science, economics, econometrics, finance, business management, and accounting journals between 2013 and September 2024. This focused selection process, consistent with established methodologies (Felsberger & Reiner, 2020; Jain & Kalapurackal, 2023), ensured a robust methodological foundation for the study, allowing for a deep exploration of the evolving landscape of sustainable supply chains.

This approach is beneficial in identifying key themes, concepts, trends, and existing gaps in the scientific literature (Lagorio et al., 2016) and fosters discussion about potential future research directions (Touboulic & Walker, 2015). Following the prominent PRISMA approach Figure 2, the study upholds credibility and accuracy, underscoring the value of a robust systematic review approach as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to advance understanding and implementation of SSCM practices.

4. Descriptive Analysis

4.1. Distribution of Publications Across Diverse Study Areas

Sustainable supply chain management. is increasingly recognized for its potential to promote sustainability practices within large manufacturing corporations, fostering inclusive growth and green production (Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Felsberger & Reiner, 2020; Parolin et al., 2024; Savastano et al., 2019). While SSCM models offer a promising framework for connecting and integrating sustainability efforts across various aspects of the supply chain, several key challenges hinder their widespread adoption (Roy et al., 2022; Silvestre et al., 2018; Yadav et al., 2020).

Therefore, a current synthesized literature review focuses on study areas that adequately represent research connected to the role of SCM on social, economic, and environmental sustainability performance. This approach allowed us to understand the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing SSCM models across diverse sectors.

As illustrated in Figure 3, the study’s scope focused primarily on environmental science (23.3%), business, economics, accounting (12.3%), and econometrics (4.5%), representing 40.1% of the search data composition within the Scopus database. While fields like energy (17.7%), social science (16.2%), engineering (9.9%), and computer science (9.2%) constitute 53% of the study areas, a review of the literature by relevance revealed a significant focus on general sustainable development with limited integration of SSCM practices (Alyahya et al., 2022; Huang et al., 2024; Mijatović et al., 2020; Verma, 2024). Therefore, despite their high composition, these fields were excluded from the analysis. This decision reflects the research emphasis on exploring the application of SSCM models within the context of environmental science, business and economics, and econometrics, areas where the integration of sustainable practices is crucial for driving positive change.

4.2. Distribution of Articles per Year and Main Journals

This section provides an analysis of articles categorized based on their year of publication, covering the period from 2013 to 2024. This analysis aimed to provide an overview of the total number of articles published to identify years with significant surges in publication activity.

As illustrated in Figure 4, this study synthesized a set of published open-access articles on SSCM spanning from 2013 to 2024. While the search for data began in 2013, the field indicated less interest during the early years, with fewer than five articles published between 2013 and 2015 (Fahimnia et al., 2015; Bocken et al., 2013; Gualandris et al., 2014). However, the statistical analysis of 92 articles reveals a surge of interest in this field, with a notable increase in publications from 2020 onwards, culminating in 19 articles published as of October 2024. This trend underscores a growing interest in SSCM practices as a critical element of transitioning towards sustainable production and accounting for societal and environmental demands.

While these results demonstrate a surge in SSCM research, evidenced by 92 articles, the number may appear lower because the search was confined to the Scopus-indexed journals. Focusing solely on Scopus excludes valuable publications from other databases like Web of Science and DOAJ, contributing to this scarcity (Fahimnia et al., 2015). To enhance future research and gain a broader understanding of SSCM, it is essential to include various databases, which could uncover new trends and insights.

Despite this limitation, there is evidence of progressive growth, particularly in 2024 when over nineteen articles were reported, yet the last data update was in October 2024. This suggests that the number of publications is expected to increase by the end of the year, reflecting significant research interest in this field. The surge in SSCM research is driven by increasing awareness, public policy, and stakeholders’ pressure to transition to sustainable production and sustainability practices (Fahimnia et al., 2015; Silvestre et al., 2018; Yadav et al., 2020; Siems et al., 2023). Even if there is a wealth of literature examining various aspects of SSCM, additional research is needed to grasp the practical applications and impact of these concepts on real-world supply chains. To keep research relevant, collaboration between academics and practitioners is crucial.

In analyzing several published articles on sustainable practices and their impact on organizational performance, we find a significant lack of focus on how SSCM specifically enhances sustainability performance within the manufacturing sector. The works of (Jabbour et al., 2016; Aditi & Jha, 2024; H. Gupta et al., 2020) primarily concentrate on the barriers and opportunities related to the adoption of SSCM practices. Meanwhile, (Chen et al., 2023; Kristoffersen et al., 2020; Savastano et al., 2019; Schöggl et al., 2023) have investigated the role of digital technology in enhancing organizational performance.

Additionally, recent studies by (da Costa et al., 2022; Ibrahim et al., 2019; Rizki et al., 2022) Have explored the impact of public regulatory frameworks in promoting sustainable practices. Similarly, research conducted by (Córdova-Aguirre & Ramón-Jerónimo, 2024; Roscoe et al., 2020; Silvestre et al., 2018) has examined the influence of stakeholder engagement on the adoption of SSCM in emerging economies. However, we are concerned that most of these surveys and literature reviews do not adequately address how the adoption of SSCM practices can enhance competitiveness, promote inclusive growth, and improve performance in the manufacturing sector. While the conclusions drawn from these studies are inspiring, they tend to be general and cannot effectively guide the future of SSCM in the manufacturing sector in developing nations. Consequently, this highlights a gap in the literature that necessitates further research in this area.

Numerous studies have highlighted the connection between SSCM and sustainability performance in developing nations (Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Leu et al., 2021; Meherishi et al., 2019; Roy et al., 2022; Sharma et al., 2022; Tao et al., 2022; Vidal et al., 2024). However, it is imperative to delve deeper into the specific mechanisms through which SSCM practices enhance environmental sustainability within the manufacturing sector in emerging economies. Addressing this critical gap is essential for cultivating a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in SSCM implementation across various contexts. It is crucial to develop a holistic framework for evaluating SSCM’s impact on sustainability performance within the manufacturing industry, encompassing ESG dimensions of sustainability.

4.3. Distribution of by Citescore from 2013 to 2024

We employed the annual Citescore technique for the previous 12 years to establish emerging trends and dominant studies within the supply chain field. This facilitated a critical assessment of the impact of current theories and concepts relating to the topic in a way to identify literature gaps to aid in developing a holistic SSCM conceptual framework. Assessing the impact of scholarly journals is crucial in the academic and research arena, and the annual Citescore serves as a valuable tool for this purpose.

This method provides academics, institutions, and publishers with a statistical yardstick to evaluate a journal’s influence and reach within the academic realm. Moreover, Citescore data can assist researchers in identifying reputable journals with high-impact factors, fostering informed decision-making for publication and research dissemination. Additionally, it serves as a framework for funding bodies and research institutions to measure the scholarly work of prospective researchers for research grants, maximizing the allocation of resources.

Figure 5 presents a compelling picture of the burgeoning interest and impact in the SSCM field, evidenced by a progressive Citescore trend over the past 12 years. A total of 92 journal articles were identified, accumulating a Citescore of 6922 and an H-index of 44. Notably, while the field received zero Citescore in its initial year (2013), it has witnessed a remarkable surge in recent years, with 2022, 2023, and 2024 showing a remarkable Citescore of 1672, 1823, and 1278, respectively. Significantly, these three years account for over 50% of the total Citescore across the 12 years, strongly indicating a surge in interest and relevance of SSCM research. This dramatic increase is promising for researchers, suggesting that SSCM research is increasingly recognized and cited, potentially attracting greater funding and attention.

The increasing Citescore figures in recent research demonstrate a shift from purely theoretical exploration to research-oriented applied solutions to real-world challenges within the realm of SCM. The significant Citescore data increase in recent years presents a compelling narrative of growing interest and impact. This aligns with observations from previous studies highlighting the increasing relevance of sustainable business practices (Fahimnia et al., 2015; Felsberger & Reiner, 2020; Jain & Kalapurackal, 2023; Parolin et al., 2024; Savastano et al., 2019).

While Citescore offers a useful metric for gauging journal impact, relying solely on it can lead to biased assessments of research quality and depth (Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Felsberger & Reiner, 2020). The time lag associated with citations can favour older publications with higher sources, potentially overlooking valuable recent research to mitigate these limitations, researchers should adopt a multi-faceted approach to literature analysis, incorporating diverse evaluation criteria beyond Citescore, such as research methodology, originality of findings, and practical relevance (Denyer & Tranfield, 2009).

4.4. Analysis of Drivers of Sustainable Supply Chain Practices

Sustainable supply chain management practices are essential for mitigating environmental degradation and fostering corporate social responsibility within the manufacturing sector (Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Meherishi et al., 2019; Silvestre et al., 2018; Vidal et al., 2024). Understanding the drivers of SSCM adoption, both internal and external to organizations, is critical for achieving widespread implementation. A review of published articles over the past 12 years reveals a multitude of drivers, as well as barriers, to SSCM adoption across various organizations. Whereas the internal drivers advocate for organizations’ competitive advantage, innovation, and reputation Moktadir et al., 2018; Oubrahim & Sefiani, 2023), the external drivers concentrate on enhancing sustainable innovation and employee engagement (Lopes et al., 2022). Thus, it is important to understand the factors driving the adoption of SSCM to effectively integrate sustainability into business operations.

Previous research shows a multitude of drivers of SSCM practices; however, the analysis identified key external drivers to sustainable supply chains outside a company’s boundaries, involving selection and collaboration with suppliers (Aditi & Jha, 2024; Asif et al., 2020; Silvestre et al., 2018), attracting environmentally conscious consumers, appealing to responsible investors, and reducing operating costs (Ferreira et al., 2023; Hussain et al., 2024; Tsang et al., 2023).

Despite extensive research in the field of supply chains, there remain significant gaps in our understanding of how SSCM practices can be effectively implemented in the manufacturing sector. The analysis revealed that there are few systematic literature reviews specifically addressing SSCM in manufacturing, with many studies relying on empirical research (60) (Alzubi & Akkerman, 2022; Golini et al., 2017) or case studies (30). This notable gap in the literature underscores the urgent need to create a comprehensive conceptual framework that can address these shortcomings.

We conduct a comprehensive analysis of the key drivers influencing SSCM practices, utilizing keyword extraction, concept mapping, and thematic analysis derived from 92 carefully selected articles. This study employs VOSviewer 1.6.20 as a tool to visualize the data, aiming to pinpoint the predominant SSCM drivers and theoretical frameworks that have emerged and evolved over the past decade in the field.

Figure 6, generated by VOSviewer, provides a compelling visualization of recent trends in the continuum of sustainable practices connected to SSCM. The keywords or concepts, denoted by different colours, illustrate the interconnectedness of various themes within the field. The green network keywords mapping in a green colour emphasizes the dominant concepts driving SCM, such as environmental sustainability, human resources, and financial development. The close connections between these themes underscore their critical role in fostering the adoption of SSCM practices in the manufacturing setting (Lopes et al., 2022; Moktadir et al., 2018). However, achieving a successful transition to a sustainable business model requires a multitude of drivers. Meanwhile, the second network theme, denoted in a purple colour, highlights additional crucial drivers encompassing climate change mitigation through innovation, stakeholder pressure, governance, and eco-recycling. The analysis, therefore, confirms these concepts as vital drivers of SSCM adoption, echoing the findings of earlier scholars (Oubrahim & Sefiani, 2023).

In addition, the content analysis suggests several potential themes, including the link between human resource practices, for instance, green supply chain management, climate change, financial development, Industry 4.0 and green investments, supply chain resilience, and researching cross-sector collaboration to promote widespread SSCM adoption. This interrelation underscores the need for holistic and integrated approaches to SSCM, recognizing that sustainable practices encompass social and economic dimensions alongside environmental concerns (Zaid et al., 2018; Pu et al., 2023; Tarigan et al., 2021).

Based on the review analysis, earlier studies indicate that the adoption of SSCM practices within the manufacturing sector is influenced by a complex interaction of internal and external factors. Companies are primarily motivated by the desire for competitive advantage, innovation, and a positive corporate image (Ahmadi-Gh & Bello-Pintado, 2022; Luqmani et al., 2017; Sun et al., 2021; Udokporo et al., 2020). However, the effects of SSCM on corporate performance and competitive advantage continue to be debated. While government regulations and stakeholder pressure serve as significant motivators, it is essential to shift towards a more strategic, collaborative, and socially responsible approach to SSCM. This shift should focus on developing supply chain leadership strategies that prioritize inclusive growth.

Expanding the discourse around the implications for SCM research, numerous studies underscore the pivotal role of the manufacturing sector in advancing sustainable supply chain practices (Sudusinghe & Seuring, 2020). The manufacturing industry is instrumental in reducing pollution, conserving resources, and mitigating environmental impact. This approach moves beyond the constraints of traditional efficiency-driven theories, highlighting the necessity for innovative strategies that prioritize sustainability alongside inclusive growth (Fahimnia et al., 2015; Nazir et al., 2024).

Further complicating the picture, research has identified significant barriers to the widespread adoption of SSCM practices. The absence of robust regulatory policies can perpetuate unsustainable practices, hindering efforts towards inclusive growth and environmental sustainability (Jabbour et al., 2016; Waqas et al., 2018). A lack of awareness and understanding of SSCM principles among businesses can also be a barrier, hindering their ability to implement these practices effectively (Córdova-Aguirre & Ramón-Jerónimo, 2024; Silvestre et al., 2018; Tseng et al., 2019). Additionally, financial constraints and a lack of investment in technology and infrastructure can pose significant challenges, particularly for smaller companies in developing countries (Alzubi & Akkerman, 2022; Chen et al., 2023; Schöggl et al., 2023). Despite these challenges, the growing awareness of the urgent need for sustainable practices, coupled with the increasing demand for responsible products and services, is driving a shift towards a more sustainable future.

5. Existing Gaps and Future Research Directions

This article offers valuable insights into the role of SSCM practices in promoting sustainable manufacturing within Africa’s large-scale manufacturing sector. A key objective of this systematic review is to identify critical research gaps and propose avenues for future investigation. Consequently, several areas requiring further research are highlighted. To begin with, the review focused on Africa to provide a nuanced understanding of the connection between SSCM and sustainable manufacturing within the large manufacturing sector, potentially overlooking valuable insights from other regions and sectors. Although this area is widely studied, the study acknowledges a limited scope, concentrating on large-scale manufacturing companies in Africa. Many surveys have primarily focused on advanced economies in Europe and America, thereby expanding the knowledge gap in developing nations.

The burgeoning field of sustainable manufacturing, evidenced by a notable increase in publications (Machado et al., 2019, shows a surprising imbalance in research methodology. While empirical studies examining SSCM practices and sustainable manufacturing in developing countries are abundant (Asif et al., 2020; Alzubi & Akkerman, 2022; Esfahbodi et al., 2016; Ramanathan et al., 2023), the number of systematic reviews remains comparatively low (e.g., 12 systematic reviews out of 93 peer-reviewed articles). This methodological imbalance highlights a significant opportunity to consolidate existing empirical findings and advance the field through more comprehensive, integrative research approaches. Systematic reviews offer a crucial mechanism to synthesize this fragmented data, providing a more robust and generalizable evidence base for informing both research and policy.

The existing literature on SSCM in manufacturing frequently focuses on barriers to adoption, neglecting the broader context of environmental impact and societal needs within the framework of the UN SDGs (Chatzoudes et al., 2024). This generalized approach overlooks the crucial interplay between economic objectives and sustainability, particularly the tendency of many manufacturing firms to prioritize profit maximization over environmental and social considerations. A significant knowledge gap exists regarding the integration of SSCM practices with broader sustainability goals, necessitating future research. Such research should move beyond identifying barriers to adoption and delve into the development and implementation of holistic, integrated SCM strategies aligned with the ESG principles.

Furthermore, the impact of technological advancements on SSCM practices remains underexplored, particularly regarding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. A recent study by Sudusinghe and Seuring (2020) emphasizes managing material, information, and capital flows, while (e.g., Sun et al., 2021; Tarigan et al., 2021; Watz & Hallstedt, 2022) highlight integrating environmental and social considerations into supply chain practices. Similarly, Waqas et al. (2018) stress the importance of eco-efficiency and reducing environmental impact, whereas García-Muiña et al. (2020) and Yosef et al. (2023) focus on the “triple bottom line” sustainability framework. These definitions underscore the vital role of sustainable supply chain practices in building a sustainable economy.

While it is true that there seem to be fewer conceptual papers emphasizing the role of SSCM practices in transitioning to a sustainable economy in developing nations, our goal is to provide new insights by consolidating key studies in this area. Additionally, we aim to identify existing gaps to create a roadmap for future research. The lack of a clear SCM public policy is something that big corporations in developing nations revealed (Kato & Manchidi, 2022; Ibrahim et al., 2019). This laxity helps to explain partly why the manufacturing sector has been slow to embrace SSCM procedures. However, recent studies (Fazli et al., 2023; Mani et al., 2016) highlight the necessity for developing nations to use SSCM strategies to increase foreign investment, global competitiveness, and sustainable manufacturing.

Moreover, the notion of SSCM is oddly defined and under-conceptualized when it comes to solving concerns related to sustainability and equitable growth. As a result, competing, normative, and subjective understandings often impact research and development policies, undermining the comparability and accuracy of successful studies and results (Felsberger & Reiner, 2020; Parolin et al., 2024). In addition, research shows that the manufacturing sector holds immense potential to drive equitable growth and economic prosperity across the developing nations (Girón et al., 2021), but this power to spur economic growth is often hindered by traditional, efficiency-driven models that prioritize cost reduction over sustainability and inclusivity (Kato & Manchidi, 2022; Silvestre et al., 2018). The manufacturing sector faces challenges in embracing SSCM practices due to its carbon footprint and persistent unemployment in emerging economies (Bour et al., 2024; Bocken et al., 2013; Ghaithan et al., 2023; Jain & Kalapurackal, 2023; Ramanathan et al., 2023; Schneider et al., 2024). Efforts to integrate ethical sourcing, community development, and fair labour practices are needed (Abdelmeguid et al., 2024; Kristoffersen et al., 2020; Lahane et al., 2024). However, a gap exists between policymakers and practitioners, although growing research indicates a new corporate strategy.

This article is expected to stimulate academic discourse and serve as a foundation for further empirical research, enhancing theoretical understanding and guiding SSCM innovation in real-world settings. Moreover, the article provides valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and other stakeholders, guiding the development of effective strategies to promote both economic growth and social equity.

Previous scholarly efforts to address sustainable manufacturing adoption in Africa have been inadequate due to several key limitations. Many studies lack coordination and a holistic approach, often failing to consider the entire supply chain system and its interconnected complexities (Chatzoudes et al., 2024). A fragmented research landscape, with studies focusing narrowly on individual aspects rather than integrated systems, hinders the development of comprehensive solutions. Furthermore, insufficient attention has been paid to the unique socio-economic and infrastructural challenges prevalent in Africa, which significantly impact the feasibility and effectiveness of sustainable manufacturing initiatives (Girón et al., 2021).

Research on SSCM has addressed environmental impact mitigation (Alfarsi et al., 2024), sustainability practices in emerging economies (Esfahbodi et al., 2016), and barriers to adoption of SSCM (Jabbour et al., 2016; Baig et al., 2020; H. Gupta et al., 2020; Oubrahim & Sefiani, 2023; Aditi & Jha, 2024). However, a significant gap remains regarding the influence of SSCM practices on sustainable manufacturing in Africa’s large manufacturing sector. This highlights the need for future cross-national empirical studies to fill this void, offering valuable insights for African manufacturers and advancing academic inquiry, particularly as the field shifts toward models that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability over mere efficiency.

This study identifies a lack of designated sustainable finance as a critical barrier to SSCM adoption in the manufacturing sector, echoing the findings of Kato and Manchidi (2025). Future research should examine how these components can spearhead organizational sustainability in conjunction with SSCM practices. A novel study exploring the synergistic relationship between SSCM practices, sustainable finance, and stakeholder engagement is crucial for developing a more comprehensive and impactful framework for achieving a sustainable future within the manufacturing sector. Additionally, this study acknowledges the need for robust methodologies to accurately measure the impact of SSCM initiatives on sustainability performance, highlighting the need for research on diverse metrics and indicators beyond traditional financial measures.

This study’s literature review, limited to Scopus, may exclude relevant publications from other databases. The focus on developing nations also limits generalizability. Future research should broaden its scope to include diverse sectors and regions, explore emerging technologies’ potential for enhancing SSCM, develop robust impact measurement methodologies, and investigate the role of stakeholder engagement in fostering more effective and sustainable SCM practices.

6. Theoretical Contributions

This study makes a significant contribution to the field of SCM by developing a new conceptual model to aid the manufacturing sector in transitioning to sustainable business models. Practically, it provides a clear framework for action, guiding resource allocation and stakeholder engagement to enhance competitiveness. Theoretically, it offers a more integrated and contextually relevant understanding of sustainable manufacturing, explicitly linking it to stakeholder and institutional theories. This holistic approach, encompassing socio-economic sustainability, environmental stewardship, technological advancement, and robust governance, provides a roadmap for achieving truly sustainable manufacturing practices within the unique challenges and opportunities of the African context, while also stimulating further research in this critical area.

This study’s contribution lies in its unique synthesis of cutting-edge research to provide in-depth knowledge in advancing a basis for transitioning to SSCM strategies in developing nations’ manufacturing sectors. This paper is expected to assist academics and policymakers in designing real-world applied solutions and a sufficient framework for future investigations. The model fills a gap in the existing literature by providing a holistic framework that integrates the dispersed elements of SSCM into a cohesive structure, addressing the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic performance.

The model is supported by a thorough analysis of over ninety-two published articles from leading sustainability and sustainable development journals, chosen based on established methodologies. This systematic literature review serves as a foundation for developing new theories and conceptual models, bridging gaps in the current body of knowledge, and acting as a launchpad for further research. The framework, building upon the work of Seuring and Müller (2008) and integrating ESG principles, provides a practical guide for manufacturing companies to implement their own SSCM strategies, fostering a more sustainable and equitable future for the industry.

While the SSCM concept has been extensively studied across various disciplines, a significant gap exists in integrating SSCM practices across the entire supply chain system. This conceptual framework contributes to the theory by addressing how the main forces behind the SCM model interact in a way that broadens the discipline’s theoretical bounds. Future research could significantly expand the scope beyond the Scopus database to include other reputable databases like Web of Science, EBSCO, and DOAJ, enabling a broader analysis of accredited journals and uncovering new trends in the SCM landscape.

Notwithstanding the abundance of empirical studies and case studies, a significant gap exists in the development of conceptual frameworks and theoretical models that can comprehensively guide the implementation of SSCM practices (Bastas & Liyanage, 2018; Meherishi et al., 2019; Pu et al., 2023; Silvestre et al., 2018). This requires exploring the complex interplay of social, economic, and environmental factors that influence the adoption and effectiveness of SSCM, particularly within the context of developing nations. The model offers a roadmap for researchers to contribute to a more robust understanding of SSCM and its potential to drive both economic growth and environmental sustainability.