Green supply chain and green logistics: a bibliometric identification of key research areas

Purpose: The aim of the research is to identify the most frequently undertaken research areas in scientific publications addressing the issues of green supply chain and green logistics simultaneously. Design/methodology/approach: The study was planned and carried out in the period from April to August 2024. The analyzed research areas were expressed through author keywords, which were assigned to individual scientific publications through their authors. The multi-stage research process used two methods for bibliometric research (systematic literature review and classical literature review). Author keywords assigned to 111 precisely selected scientific publications were analyzed. Findings: Nine of the most frequently addressed research areas in scientific publications that simultaneously addressed green supply chain and green logistics were identified. In terms of as many as three identified research areas, there was a direct reference to the supply chain (green supply chain, green supply chain management, supply chain management). In turn, in two areas there was a reference to sustainability issues (environmental sustainability, sustainability). In addition, the issue of reverse logistics was identified as a key research area and at the same time corresponding to the issue of green logistics. Research limitations/implications: An important factor limiting the study was the choice of database for bibliometric analyses (Scopus database). In addition, the scope of the analyses undertaken was limited to the constructed bibliometric query (Q1). However, both aspects indicated simultaneously made it possible to obtain precise and consistent results of the analyses. Moreover, it becomes possible to repeat the study in the future and compare it with other constructed studies aimed at literature review. Originality/value: The study, compared to other such bibliometric analyses, is distinguished by the syntax of the constructed query. In addition, it was noted that research should be undertaken in learning more about the role and importance of logistics and supply chain greening for emerging green business ecosystems. Other relevant areas are the question of green job creation due to the greening of supply chains, or how the green skills gap affects the process of green supply chain and green logistics. The article is addressed to anyone interested in issues related to green supply chain and green logistics.