Integrating Social Sustainability into Supply Chain Management from the Perspective of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals ^†

Abstract

While there has been significant research and progress in the field of sustainable supply chain management, there are still some areas that require further attention and exploration. In this paper, we particularly focus on the social aspect of sustainability and present an examination of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) within the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Regarding the methodology, we adopted a three-step approach involving digital literature aggregation, in-depth filtering, and comprehensive data analysis that identifies and analyzes the social dimensions of the SDGs, such as inequality, health, education, and community development. This paper makes a novel contribution by aligning SCM with the social pillars of the SDGs, underscoring their importance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, which makes this study unique. This study is pertinent for supply chain practitioners, managers, policymakers, researchers in sustainable development and SCM, businesses focused on corporate social responsibility, and NGOs advocating for social sustainability.

1. Introduction

In the modern business and academic context, the intersection of supply chain management (SCM) and sustainability serves as an important area of focus. It is commonly observed that supply chain challenges, particularly those related to social responsibility, frequently emanate from suppliers [1]. Coordinating operations, aligning strategies, and overseeing everything from obtaining raw materials to delivering products to customers are a few examples of broad SCM activities. Various scholars and experts have already explained these aspects of supply chain management. There are some noteworthy definitions provided by experts such as Mentzer, Misra, and also the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) that emphasizes the integral role of SCM in organizing the flow and transformation of goods and associated information [2,3,4]. The social aspect of sustainability in this context emphasizes the importance of managing social impacts and responsibilities associated with different stages throughout the supply chain’s activities. Enhanced supply chain visibility contributes to the advancement of socially sustainable supply chains by providing greater transparency concerning labor practices, working conditions, and human rights concerns [5].

Concurrently, sustainability emerges as a paramount consideration in this discourse, guided by the seminal definition put forth by the Brundtland Commission. Sustainability, according to this commission, entails meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs [6]. This foundational concept encompasses a “triple bottom line”, integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions. The pillars of environmental sustainability, social sustainability, and economic sustainability underscore the responsible and balanced utilization of resources for long-term well-being.

Adopting social sustainability in SCM presents several significant challenges that must be addressed to ensure effective and long-lasting implementation [7]. For example, due to the qualitative nature of social sustainability, it is hard to measure and define it. Secondly, it is challenging to ensure transparency and accountability in the supply chain. And also, in most cases, the cost of adopting social sustainability initiatives is considerably high, especially for smaller companies. As a real-world example, we can consider the apparel industry. In 2013, the Rana Plaza building collapse caused 1130 worker deaths and hundreds of injuries [8]. Organizations in the apparel industry, while implementing social sustainability initiatives, may encounter various challenges stemming from a range of resource-related and institutional factors [9]. It is also noteworthy that “balance between work and life” and a “safe and healthy working environment” serve as key indicators that influence social sustainability in different industries such as the food industry [10].

Ensuring the sustainability of SCM plays an important role in attaining the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals [11]. These goals provide a framework for businesses to incorporate sustainability into their supply chains, ensuring that their operations, products, and services align with the needs of our planet and cater to markets well. Companies can make a difference by incorporating sustainability initiatives into their supply chains. This involves working with both secondary suppliers to promote ethical practices and contribute to social and environmental well-being [12].

Each of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be categorized into at least one of the three dimensions of sustainability: environmental, economic, and social. The categorization of the UN’s SDGs is completely general and these goals are not specifically tailored to SCM. They provide a holistic set of targets that can be applied across different sectors and disciplines. Our specific contribution in this study is the categorization and alignment of those SDGs from the perspective of the supply chain. This involves examining goals that directly address social issues such as inequality, health, education, and community development to understand their impact and relevance within the broader framework of sustainable development. These SDGs incorporated into SCM practices would respond to the relevant social issues and would also ensure that the operations of companies are also contributing constructively towards these global goals. This strategic alignment furthers SCM’s role in operational efficiency to that of a critical player in the advancement of social sustainability initiatives globally.

2. Research Methodology

We have designed a research methodology including three steps (Figure 1) in order to find the most relevant information. Step 1: Digital Literature Aggregation. The primary objective of this step is to efficiently collect a wide range of relevant academic sources. To do that, we utilized digital libraries and academic databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Science Direct, etc. This step is crucial for ensuring that we have a comprehensive base for our research. By having access to these databases, we can gather and obtain a broad range of various scholarly works that pertain to the social dimensions of the SDGs and SCM. Step 2: In-Depth Filtering and Selection. To refine the search results and select the most pertinent literature, we implemented advanced search filters like type of publication (e.g., peer-reviewed articles and conference proceedings), and specific thematic areas within the social pillars of the SDGs (like health, education, and inequality). Finally, we selected a set of sources that provide significant insights into the social dimension of the SDGs. Step 3: Data Extraction and Analysis. In the final step, the objective is to synthesize and analyze the selected literature for deep insights into the social pillars of the SDGs. We did this through extracting key data points, arguments, and findings from each source, focusing on how they relate to social issues in sustainable development. In this study, our specific contribution lies in the categorization and alignment of the UN’s SDGs from the perspective of supply chain management. This comprehensive approach ensured a robust synthesis of research findings, highlighting how SCM practices can effectively contribute to the social pillars of the SDGs, thus advancing global social sustainability agendas.

This methodology (Figure 1) could be advantageous for three main reasons. Primarily, comprehensive coverage: This means that, by using varied academic databases, we can ensure that we have used a broad range of the current literature. This is crucial when it comes to having a deep understanding of the topic. Moreover, we used a focused methodology that includes the use of advanced search filters in the selection process, helping us to identify studies that are most relevant to our specific research questions. Then, depth of analysis: The final step in data extraction and analysis allows for a deep dive into the selected literature, providing a nuanced understanding of the social dimensions of the SDGs in SCM.

3. Results

In this study, we focused on finding the social dimension of the supply chain, which is a critical and neglected pillar compared to environmental and economic sustainability. This analysis delves into how specific SDGs address pressing social issues including inequality, health, education, and community development. The definition of the seven goals used is according to the Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations website [13].

3.1. No Poverty

SDG 1 aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms globally, which is achievable through emphasizing the need to address the root causes of poverty and ensuring that all people, especially the vulnerable groups, have equal access to economic resources, basic services, and opportunities. The primary objectives of this goal are as follows: 1. Eradicating extreme poverty. Fulfilling this is extremely crucial because poverty can widely impact having instant and easy access to education and health as well as extending a cycle of disadvantage across future generations. 2. Reducing poverty by half. 3. Implementing a social protection system. 4. Building resilience to social disasters. In the area of sustainable supply chains, addressing poverty involves ensuring fair labor practices, equitable compensation, and supporting community development along the supply chain. Some of the most effective ways that organizations can contribute to the “No Poverty” goal in their supply chains are by prioritizing fair labor practices, engaging in community development, and conducting regular assessments to eliminate exploitative practices and promote economic well-being in the regions in which they operate. This is considered an important factor because supply chains often span across regions with varying degrees of economic development and poverty levels.

3.2. Zero Hunger

SDG 2 highlights putting an end to hunger, achieving food security, promoting improved nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture through underscoring the significance of constant access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food universally. The UN has outlined several specific targets and indicators for SDG 2 to measure progress and guide global efforts. First and foremost, they work toward ending hunger and improving access to food. This target addresses the needs of vulnerable people such as the poor and infants. The second target is combating malnutrition, which has a long-term negative impact on productivity and the health of children. The third target is agriculture productivity and sustainable food production. Finally, the fourth target is about investing in and trading agricultural products. SDG 2 aims for more money to be put into farming and fewer rules that make it hard to trade farm supplies worldwide. This goal covers the significant role of supply chains in addressing the social dimensions of food security and nutrition. There are several important strategies through which various organizations can contribute to this goal, such as prioritizing equitable food distribution, promoting nutritious products, supporting sustainable agriculture, and engaging in community development initiatives to enhance food security and nutrition, aligning with SDG 2 of “Zero Hunger”.

3.3. Good Health and Well-Being

This SDG aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all people of all ages. Some key targets of SDG 3 include the following: 1. Reducing maternal mortality. The objective behind SDG 3 is to lower the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Although significant progress has been made in this area, the current rate of reduction in maternal mortality still needs to accelerate significantly to meet this target by the end of 2030. 2. Ending the preventable death of children under 3. 3. Combating communicable diseases. 4. Substance abuse prevention and treatment. 5. Health emergency preparedness. This goal has substantial implications for the social aspect of SCM because it is deeply connected to the social responsibilities of supply chain management. For delivering healthcare services and products, combating diseases, managing medical resources, and responding to health emergencies, all of which are crucial for promoting and maintaining global health and well-being, effective supply chains are essential. Organizations should focus on several critical factors to address SDG 3. For example, they can ensure access to healthcare services and essential medical products. Furthermore, they can provide laborers with safe working conditions and fair wages. Another important factor could be collaborating with healthcare organizations, governments, and NGOs.

3.4. Quality Education

This goal is about ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for everyone. It shows the importance of eliminating gender disparities in education and ensuring equal access for the vulnerable. This goal encompasses a range of targets, each addressing different aspects of education such as universal primary and secondary education, early childhood education and pre-primary education, gender equality and inclusion in education, and education for sustainable development and global citizenship. According to Jiang, companies can improve their social standing through various Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) initiatives by highlighting the importance of educating employees about GHRM practices and fostering an environmentally friendly culture within the organization and the broader community [14]. The “Quality Education” goal highlights the role of supply chains in fostering a more educated, skilled, and inclusive society. One way to achieve a more equitable and sustainable future is by investing in education and training, promoting inclusivity, and supporting educational initiatives and supply chains. Organizations can work towards achieving SDG 4 within their supply chain through several key strategies. They can offer training programs, workshops, and access to educational resources to improve the knowledge and skills of employees. Another motivating strategy is encouraging employees and their families by offering scholarships or grants to access higher education, resulting in their personal development and career prospects. Regularly assessing the impact of educational initiatives within the supply chain, measuring progress toward SDG 4 goals, and making necessary improvements are also other strategies that every organization can take into consideration when it comes to achieving SDG 4.

3.5. Gender Equality

The objective here is to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. This goal encompasses various targets and indicators, which are essential in monitoring progress and guiding actions towards gender equality. These are as follows: End discrimination by focusing on putting an end to discrimination against all women and girls. End violence, which includes eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls in public and private. Value unpaid care and domestic work and equal rights to domestic resources. It is worth mentioning that this goal underscores the responsibility of supply chains in promoting and ensuring gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. By implementing equitable employment practices, ensuring safe working environments, valuing unpaid care work, and promoting equal access to economic resources, supply chains can significantly contribute to the achievement of this goal. Effective strategies that can be employed by different organizations to achieve this particular goal are discussed in the following. Every organization should ensure that they implement policies that promote equal opportunities for women at all levels of employment. They need to guarantee that every employee within the organization is paid equally for equal work, regardless of gender, and also conduct regular pay equity assessments to identify and rectify any disparities. Anti-discrimination policies are another strategy to provide a safe and respectful working environment for all employees.

3.6. Reduced Inequalities

This goal seeks to reduce inequality within and among countries. Some noteworthy targets include the following: 1. Reducing income inequality, which aims for income growth for the bottom 40% of the population in every country to be higher than the national average. 2. Ensuring equal opportunities. 3. Promoting inclusion. 4. Adopting equality-promoting policies by addressing policies, wage, and social protection laws. In essence, the “Reduced Inequalities” goal emphasizes the role of supply chains in fostering a more equitable global economy. Through fair labor practices, inclusive policies, and support for equitable economic growth, supply chains can play a pivotal role in reducing disparities and promoting equality both within and across countries. By incorporating the following strategies into their supply chain practices, organizations can make significant contributions to achieving SDG 10. Supply chain transparency, which can be achieved through implementing transparency initiatives that trace the origin of products and raw materials. This strategy can help to identify and address inequalities in the supply chain. Additionally, they can promote supplier diversity and work with suppliers that prioritize inclusivity and consider equality in their hiring and labor practices.

3.7. Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

This goal aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. This includes reducing corruption, developing effective and transparent institutions, and ensuring responsive, inclusive, and representative decision-making. The Sustainable Development Goal of “Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions” (SDG 16) is closely linked to the social aspects of supply chain management. It highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in business operations, which are achievable through several approaches including promoting peaceful interactions, ensuring access to justice, building accountable institutions, combating corruption, and involving diverse stakeholders in decision-making. Organizations can significantly contribute to achieving this goal by incorporating some key strategies in their supply chain practices such as promoting transparency in their supply chain operations by sharing information about sourcing, production, and distribution practices. Moreover, they can ensure that all supply chain activities are aligned with local and international laws and regulations related to trade, labor, environmental protection, and human rights.

Table 1. SDG integration in sustainable supply chain dimensions.

UN Sustainable Development Goals	References
No Poverty: end poverty in all its forms, everywhere	[13,15]
2. Zero Hunger: end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture	[13,16]
3. Good Health and Well-Being: ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages	[13,17]
4. Quality Education: ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all	[13,18]
5. Gender Equality: achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls	[13,19]
10. Reduced Inequalities: reduce inequality within and among countries	[13,20]
16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels	[13,21]

presents an analysis of the seven goals of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals aligning with the social pillar of sustainability. Each goal is supported by scholarly references which focus on the critical social issues of health, education, reduction in inequality, and gender equality. This alignment underscores the interconnectedness of these goals in addressing social challenges, contributing significantly to the broader objective of sustainable development. It is crucial to align supply chain practices with these SDGs, because this significantly contributes to addressing social challenges. This approach underscores the interconnectedness of the SDGs in promoting sustainable development and emphasizes that the role of supply chains is not only ensuring operational efficiency but also advancing social sustainability goals.

4. Conclusions and Future Research Suggestions

In summary, this paper reflects the interplay of SCM with sustainability, and, in general, the pursuits of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From an extensive literature review, SCM was identified as a critical factor in achieving the social dimensions of the SDGs, which require responding to critical issues of inequality, health, and education, and community development. It has also indicated the complications and challenges in integrating social sustainability in SCM, as demonstrated in the case study related to varied industries. Those main drivers and best practices key for aligning SCM with the SDGs include the need for a sustainable future that balances the needs of people, the planet, and prosperity.

We believe that mapping supply chain activities against the SDGs could be a comprehensive and forward-thinking method of incorporating sustainability into supply chain management. In order to achieve this future dimension, we require a detailed examination of the different ways in which every component of the supply chain supports or can be harmonized with particular SDGs. This will further highlight the vital role that supply chains play in sustainable development by demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices and offering a precise and workable roadmap for how supply chain operations can directly support and advance these global goals.

Future Research Directions

As we look forward, future research should delve deeper into the mechanisms through which SCM can be more effectively aligned with the SDGs, particularly in emerging markets and underrepresented sectors. The research could take into consideration several aspects including examining specific challenges and opportunities that emerging markets present in the context of SCM and the SDGs. Factors such as limited infrastructure, diverse socio-economic context, and regulatory variations need to be analyzed. Furthermore, it is essential to investigate how SCM practices can be adapted and tailored to suit the unit characteristics of these markets. In order to facilitate this, we can explore innovative strategies for sustainable sourcing, distribution, and also collaboration with local stakeholders. Additionally, we should not forget the decisive role of digital platforms, data analytics, and also technology that paves the way to enhancing the alignment of SCM and the SDGs in emerging markets. Regarding the underrepresented sectors such as informal economies and small-scale agriculture, research could consider the feasibility and impact of integrating sustainable practices into their supply chain. More research suggestions for SCM and social sustainability are outlined below. These are in order to address the gaps in the understanding of SCM and social sustainability. 1. Tailored SCM practices for emerging markets. 2. Impact of cultural variations on SCM sustainability 3. Measuring and reporting social impact.

In the fields of social sustainability and SCM, there is also a great deal of room for additional research. Scholars can focus on creating and assessing strategies for further incorporating social factors into supply chain operations. For example, they can consider different topics such as examining tactics for fair labor practices, resource distribution equity, and community involvement in supply chains, which are some contentious topics in this field. Another valuable controversial issue could be the examination and monitoring of labor standards’ implementation, the evaluation of working conditions, and investigation procedures for guaranteeing the rights and well-being of employees at all levels, which are all part of the process of investigating strategies for fair labor practices. Moreover, examining the efficiency of audits, codes of conduct, and certification programs in advancing social sustainability in SCM could yield insightful results. Fair distribution is another important component of social sustainability.