Triple Bottom Line in Sustainable Development: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis

Ionuț Nica, Nora Chiriță and Irina Georgescu ()
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Ionuț Nica: Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 0105552 Bucharest, Romania
Nora Chiriță: Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 0105552 Bucharest, Romania
Irina Georgescu: Department of Economic Informatics and Cybernetics, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 0105552 Bucharest, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-33

Abstract: This study provides a bibliometric analysis of the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework in sustainable development, highlighting its ethical dimensions and corporate responsibility. Using R Studio and VOSviewer, we examine research trends from 2001 to 2023, revealing a 23.23% annual growth in publications, strong global engagement, and increasing interdisciplinarity. Thematic analysis shows a shift from broad management concepts to specialized areas such as circular economy, life cycle assessment, and climate impact, demonstrating TBL’s transition from a theoretical model to an actionable sustainability framework. Our findings provide practical insights for policymakers and organizations, supporting data-driven decision-making in sustainability strategies. By integrating ethical accountability with economic, social, and environmental goals, TBL offers a structured approach to guiding sustainable business practices and informing policy development.

Keywords: triple bottom line; sustainable frameworks; bibliometric analysis; life cycle assessment; corporate social responsability; circular economy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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