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Beyond the Hype: A Systematic Exploration of Emerging Thematic Trends and Persistent Challenges in Combating Greenwashing Across Global Supply Chains

Author

Listed:
  • Vivian Cherono

    (Doctoral School of Economic and Regional Sciences, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Páter Károly u. 1, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary)

  • Md. Tota Miah

    (Doctoral School of Economic and Regional Sciences, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Páter Károly u. 1, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary
    Department of Business Administration, Varendra University, Rajshahi 6204, Bangladesh)

  • Ildikó Rudnák

    (Department of Agricultural Management and Leadership Sciences, Institute of Agricultural and Food Economics, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Páter Károly u. 1, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary)

  • Szűcs Csaba

    (Doctoral School of Economic and Regional Sciences, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Páter Károly u. 1, 2100 Gödöllő, Hungary)

Abstract

This study aimed to determine how research has highlighted greenwashing in supply chains by identifying emerging themes and pinpointing gaps that must be addressed in combating greenwashing in global supply chains. Using the PRISMA framework, 58 papers published up to 2024 were critically examined. Through this review, five key emerging themes are presented: standardization of regulatory policies, technological innovations for transparency, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, the role of NGOs in monitoring greenwashing incidences, and industry-specific case studies. The study also identified a dearth of research on industry-specific cases, regional disparities, the implementation of technological innovations for supply chain transparency, and the role of supply chain stakeholders in reducing greenwashing, with only a few papers highlighting NGOs and government. We propose a conceptual framework for combating greenwashing and to promote sustainability in global supply chain operations, paving the way for further academic exploration. We also suggest solutions as well as a guide for future researchers to explore areas that are still underdeveloped and offer recommendations to supply chain policymakers on addressing greenwashing.

Suggested Citation

  • Vivian Cherono & Md. Tota Miah & Ildikó Rudnák & Szűcs Csaba, 2025. "Beyond the Hype: A Systematic Exploration of Emerging Thematic Trends and Persistent Challenges in Combating Greenwashing Across Global Supply Chains," Administrative Sciences, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-27, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jadmsc:v:15:y:2025:i:5:p:173-:d:1648950
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Arne Nygaard, 2024. "Green Marketing and Entrepreneurship," Springer Books, Springer, number 978-3-031-50333-7, March.
    2. Khan, Habib Zaman & Bose, Sudipta & Johns, Raechel, 2020. "Regulatory influences on CSR practices within banks in an emerging economy: Do banks merely comply?," CRITICAL PERSPECTIVES ON ACCOUNTING, Elsevier, vol. 71(C).
    3. Md. Tota Miah & Szilvia Erdei-Gally & Anita Dancs & Mária Fekete-Farkas, 2024. "A Systematic Review of Industry 4.0 Technology on Workforce Employability and Skills: Driving Success Factors and Challenges in South Asia," Economies, MDPI, vol. 12(2), pages 1-24, January.
    4. Addisu A. Lashitew, 2021. "Corporate uptake of the Sustainable Development Goals: Mere greenwashing or an advent of institutional change?," Journal of International Business Policy, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 4(1), pages 184-200, March.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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