Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age

Abstract submission deadline

31 December 2025

Manuscript submission deadline

30 June 2026

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12388

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to invite researchers and practitioners to contribute to a Topic focused on Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in a Digital Age. The integration of digital technologies with sustainability initiatives in supply chain management presents new opportunities and challenges that merit rigorous exploration. This call aims to advance the understanding and application of these transformative practices.

We encourage the submission of original research, case studies, and theoretical papers addressing, but not limited to, the following topics:

• Digital Transformation in Supply Chains: AI, blockchain, IoT, and their roles in achieving sustainable supply chains.
• Sustainability Metrics and Analytics: Tools for measuring, monitoring, and optimizing sustainability performance.
• Circular Economy and Digital Tools: Leveraging technology for closed-loop supply chains.
• Green Logistics and Transportation: Innovations in reducing carbon footprints.
• Ethical Sourcing and Traceability: Digital approaches to ensuring ethical labor practices and supply chain transparency.
• Resilient and Agile Supply Chains: Enhancing adaptability while maintaining sustainability goals.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Using digital platforms for enhanced collaboration among suppliers, manufacturers, and consumers.
• Regulatory and Policy Implications: Adapting to evolving standards and compliance in a digital age.

Join us in advancing the dialog on sustainable supply chain management in the digital age. We look forward to your contributions.

Dr. Atour Taghipour
Dr. Youssef Tliche
Dr. Jomana Leroux
Dr. Hamdi Radhoui
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Economies economies	2.1	4.7	2013	22 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	7.7	2009	19.3 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
World world	1.9	-	2020	28.6 Days	CHF 1200	Submit
Digital digital	-	4.8	2021	33.9 Days	CHF 1000	Submit
Logistics logistics	3.6	8.0	2017	25.6 Days	CHF 1400	Submit

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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All Economies Sustainability World Digital Logistics

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34 pages, 1300 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Dual Mechanisms of Digital Transformation in Sustaining Green Innovation: A Supply Chain Perspective on Capability–Motivation Dynamics

by Ziyang Shi and Danxue Fan

Sustainability 2025, 17(20), 9005; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17209005 - 11 Oct 2025

Viewed by 381

Abstract

In the context of global industrial chain decarbonization, the perpetuation of corporate green innovation has emerged as a linchpin for sustaining a competitive advantage in the pursuit of environmental sustainability. Employing a panel data framework, this investigation analyzes A-share listed firms in China [...] Read more.

In the context of global industrial chain decarbonization, the perpetuation of corporate green innovation has emerged as a linchpin for sustaining a competitive advantage in the pursuit of environmental sustainability. Employing a panel data framework, this investigation analyzes A-share listed firms in China from 2011 to 2023. In terms of supply chain perspectives, this study utilizes fixed effects models, mediation analysis, and moderation analysis to empirically examine how downstream enterprises’ digital transformation affects the sustainability of upstream enterprises’ green innovation, while deconstructing the “capability–motivation” dual pathway underlying such sustainability. The key findings are as follows: (1) downstream digital transformation significantly strengthens upstream green innovation persistence through both capability reinforcement and motivation amplification, with a notably stronger impact on the latter; (2) mechanism tests show that capability improvement primarily arises from knowledge spillovers and enhanced supply–demand coordination efficiency, while motivation enhancement stems from intensified market competition and greater responsiveness to tax incentives; and (3) supply chain structural characteristics exert critical moderating effects. This research elucidates the operational logic and boundary conditions of supply chain digital coordination in driving green innovation persistence, contributing to theoretical frameworks while offering actionable insights for policymaking and corporate strategic optimization in sustainable supply chain management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age)

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22 pages, 445 KB  

Open AccessArticle

AI Integration in Fundamental Logistics Components: Advanced Theoretical Framework for Knowledge Process Capabilities and Dynamic Capabilities Hybridization

by Zsolt Toth, Alexandru-Silviu Goga and Mircea Boșcoianu

Logistics 2025, 9(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics9040140 - 5 Oct 2025

Viewed by 713

Abstract

Background: Despite significant technological advances, many logistics organizations in emerging markets struggle to realize the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, with reported success rates below 65% and limited theoretical understanding of the organizational capabilities. This study develops and proposes an integrated theoretical [...] Read more.

Background: Despite significant technological advances, many logistics organizations in emerging markets struggle to realize the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, with reported success rates below 65% and limited theoretical understanding of the organizational capabilities. This study develops and proposes an integrated theoretical framework examining how knowledge process capabilities and dynamic capabilities interact to enable successful artificial intelligence adoption in logistics organizations within emerging market contexts. Methods: Through comprehensive literature review and theoretical synthesis, we propose a hybrid capability framework that integrates knowledge-based view perspectives with dynamic capabilities theory. Results: Theoretical analysis suggests that knowledge combination capabilities may be the strongest predictor of artificial intelligence implementation success, while dynamic reconfiguring capabilities could mediate the relationship between artificial intelligence adoption and performance outcomes. The proposed framework indicates that organizations with hybrid capability architecture may achieve superior implementation success compared to traditional approaches. Environmental uncertainty is theorized to strengthen the knowledge process capabilities—artificial intelligence adoption relationship. Conclusions: The framework suggests that successful artificial intelligence integration requires simultaneous development of knowledge-based and adaptive capabilities rather than sequential capability building. The hybrid capability framework provides theoretical guidance for managers in emerging markets, while highlighting the critical role of environmental context in shaping transformation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age)

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19 pages, 1000 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Criteria Decision Support for Sustainable Supplier Evaluation in Mining SMEs: A Fuzzy Logic and TOPSIS Approach

by Joachim O. Gidiagba, Modestus Okwu and Lagouge Tartibu

Logistics 2025, 9(3), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics9030132 - 22 Sep 2025

Viewed by 798

Abstract

Background: Improving operational efficiency in the mining industry increasingly de-pends on a mature asset management framework and the careful selection of reliable, sustainable suppliers for systems, personnel, equipment, and services. Given the complexity of mining operations and the growing use of digital [...] Read more.

Background: Improving operational efficiency in the mining industry increasingly de-pends on a mature asset management framework and the careful selection of reliable, sustainable suppliers for systems, personnel, equipment, and services. Given the complexity of mining operations and the growing use of digital tools, choosing the right maintenance management system requires a robust decision-making process that considers economic, environmental, and social sustainability factors. Methods: This study develops and compares two multi-criteria decision-making approaches, a ranking method and a fuzzy logic-based model to evaluate four maintenance management systems against fifteen sustainability-related criteria. Expert opinions from executives and operational managers in the South African mining sector were gathered, focusing on factors such as cost, integration, reliability, ease of use, inventory control, and predictive capabilities. Results: The ranking method produced a clear, quantitative order of preference, while the fuzzy model addressed uncertainty and subjectivity in expert judgments. Both methods identified the same top choice: UPKEEP, followed by SAP, FIIX, and LIMBLE. Conclusions: This comparison shows that combining fuzzy logic with sustainability-focused evaluation can improve the flexibility and reliability of supplier selection in asset management. The proposed approach offers practical guidance for aligning maintenance system choices with broader sustainability goals in mining operations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age)

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23 pages, 1830 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Fuzzy Multi-Objective Optimization Model for Resilient Supply Chain Financing Based on Blockchain and IoT

by Hamed Nozari, Shereen Nassar and Agnieszka Szmelter-Jarosz

Digital 2025, 5(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/digital5030032 - 31 Jul 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1198

Abstract

Managing finances in a supply chain today is not as straightforward as it once was. The world is constantly shifting—markets fluctuate, risks emerge unexpectedly—and companies are continually trying to stay one step ahead. In all this, financial resilience has become more than just [...] Read more.

Managing finances in a supply chain today is not as straightforward as it once was. The world is constantly shifting—markets fluctuate, risks emerge unexpectedly—and companies are continually trying to stay one step ahead. In all this, financial resilience has become more than just a strategy. It is a survival skill. In our research, we examined how newer technologies (such as blockchain and the Internet of Things) can make a difference. The idea was not to reinvent the wheel but to see if these tools could actually make financing more transparent, reduce some of the friction, and maybe even help companies breathe a little easier when it comes to liquidity. We employed two optimization methods (Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO)) to achieve a balanced outcome. The goal was lower financing costs, better liquidity, and stronger resilience. Blockchain did not just record transactions—it seemed to build trust. Meanwhile, the Internet of Things (IoT) provided companies with a clearer picture of what is happening in real-time, making financial outcomes a bit less of a guessing game. However, it gives financial managers a better chance at planning and not getting caught off guard when the economy takes a turn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age)

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28 pages, 1431 KB  

Open AccessArticle

From Mine to Market: Streamlining Sustainable Gold Production with Cutting-Edge Technologies for Enhanced Productivity and Efficiency in Central Asia

by Mohammad Shamsuddoha, Adil Kaibaliev and Tasnuba Nasir

Logistics 2025, 9(3), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics9030100 - 29 Jul 2025

Viewed by 1554

Abstract

Background: Gold mining is a critical part of the industry of Central Asia, contributing significantly to regional economic growth. However, gold production management faces numerous challenges, including adopting innovative technologies such as AI, using improved logistical equipment, resolving supply chain inefficiencies and [...] Read more.

Background: Gold mining is a critical part of the industry of Central Asia, contributing significantly to regional economic growth. However, gold production management faces numerous challenges, including adopting innovative technologies such as AI, using improved logistical equipment, resolving supply chain inefficiencies and disruptions, and incorporating modernized waste management and advancements in gold bar processing technologies. This study explores how advanced technologies and improved logistical processes can enhance efficiency and sustainability. Method: This paper examines gold production processes in Kyrgyzstan, a gold-producing country in Central Asia. The case study approach combines qualitative interviews with industry stakeholders and a system dynamics (SD) simulation model to compare current operations with a technology-based scenario. Results: The simulation model shows improved outcomes when innovative technologies are applied to ore processing, waste refinement, and gold bar production. The results also indicate an approximate twenty-five percent reduction in transport time, a thirty percent decrease in equipment downtime, a thirty percent reduction in emissions, and a fifteen percent increase in gold extraction when using artificial intelligence, smart logistics, and regional smelting. Conclusions: The study concludes with recommendations to modernize equipment, localize processing, and invest in digital logistics to support sustainable mining and improve operational performance in Kyrgyzstan’s gold sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age)

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25 pages, 2776 KB  

Open AccessReview

A Review of Supply Chain Digitalization and Emerging Research Paradigms

by Xiaowen Lu and Atour Taghipour

Logistics 2025, 9(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics9020047 - 27 Mar 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6713

Abstract

Background: The global supply chain landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the increasing adoption of digital tools. Despite the potential benefits, many organizations struggle to effectively integrate these technologies due to a lack of systematic understanding and frameworks. At the same [...] Read more.

Background: The global supply chain landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the increasing adoption of digital tools. Despite the potential benefits, many organizations struggle to effectively integrate these technologies due to a lack of systematic understanding and frameworks. At the same time, the academic literature on supply chain digitalization lacks a clear taxonomy and analysis of research paradigms that guide scholarly investigations. Methods: To address these gaps, this paper conducts a comprehensive literature review utilizing an analytic approach, based on abductive reasoning, that establishes an analytical framework to identify, assess, and examine the application of various digital technologies in supply chain management. Results: Based on this analysis, the authors propose new systematic dimensions for digitalization in supply chains, alongside emerging research paradigms in this field. Conclusions: The findings provide valuable insights into the current research landscape, offering a foundation for future investigations. Additionally, practical recommendations are presented for advancing research, education, and management practices, with the goal of promoting innovation and the effective implementation of digital technologies in supply chain management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in A Digital Age)

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