Blockchain for Sustainable Supply Chains: A Bibliometric and Thematic Evolution Analysis (2015–2024)

Theophilus Kofi Anyanful (), Aigbavboa (), Clinton and Wellington Didibhuku Thwala
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Theophilus Kofi Anyanful: Accra Technical University, Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management
Aigbavboa: University of Johannesburg, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Clinton: University of Johannesburg, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Wellington Didibhuku Thwala: University of Johannesburg, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment

A chapter in Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Business and Entrepreneurship (ICSBE 2025), 2025, pp 34-60 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract Blockchain is increasingly recognised as a disruptive technology in supply chain management (SCM), enhancing transparency, trust, and traceability. However, research remains fragmented. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 4,044 Scopus-indexed publications (2015–2024) to map the intellectual structure, leading contributors, and thematic evolution of blockchain-SCM research. Using Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny, the findings reveal exponential publication growth, with early conceptual discussions (2017–2019) transitioning to adoption-oriented studies (2020–2021) and a recent focus on sustainability, traceability, and Industry 4.0 integration (2022–2024). Key authors include Kannan Govindan, Joseph Sarkis, and Horst Treiblmaier, while major publication outlets are Sustainability (Switzerland), IEEE Access, and the International Journal of Production Research. Keyword and thematic analyses indicate sustainability, smart contracts, and IoT integration as emerging hotspots. Yet, critical gaps remain concerning scalability, interoperability, energy efficiency, and regulatory frameworks. The study provides a panoramic overview of blockchain-SCM scholarship, offering insights to guide future research, managerial decision-making, and policy formulation for developing transparent, sustainable, and digitally integrated supply chains.

Keywords: Blockchain; Supply Chain Management (SCM); Bibliometric Analysis; Sustainability; Traceability; Trust; Smart Contracts (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.2991/978-94-6463-930-8_5

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