Blockchain adoption in supply chains: implications for sustainability
M. Kouhizadeh, S. Saberi, J. Sarkis
Abstract
Focusing on the intersections of technology, supply chain operations, and sustainability, this paper investigates how blockchain adoption affects environmental, social, and economic outcomes (the 'triple bottom line'). The authors provide a conceptual model for how blockchain can track sustainability metrics, such as carbon emissions, ethical labor sourcing, and waste generation. By analyzing industry initiatives, the study demonstrates that blockchain’s immutability serves as a powerful deterrent against 'greenwashing' and non-compliant manufacturing practices. However, the researchers also note the potential energy consumption of the underlying blockchain infrastructure itself, cautioning that sustainability claims must account for the net environmental footprint. The study provides a framework for firms to evaluate the environmental benefits of blockchain against the costs of deployment, offering a nuanced view of its role in driving sustainable corporate governance.
Key Findings
- 1Blockchain facilitates the verification of sustainability metrics across tiers of the supply chain.
- 2The technology helps combat greenwashing by providing verifiable proof of compliance.
- 3The environmental footprint of blockchain infrastructure must be considered in sustainability assessments.
- 4Blockchain supports the triple bottom line by enhancing accountability in labor and environmental practices.
Topics
Citation
BibTeX
@misc{blockchainadoption2024,
title = {Blockchain adoption in supply chains: implications for sustainability},
author = {M. Kouhizadeh and S. Saberi and J. Sarkis},
year = {2024},
howpublished = {\url{https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/09537287.2023.2296669}},
}Knowledge Explorer
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