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Applications of Blockchain Technology in Sustainable Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management: A Systematic Review

Author

Listed:
  • Ahmad A. A. Khanfar

    (School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia)

  • Mohammad Iranmanesh

    (School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia)

  • Morteza Ghobakhloo

    (School of Economics and Business, Kaunas University of Technology, LT-44249 Kaunas, Lithuania
    Graduate School of Business, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia)

  • Madugoda Gunaratnege Senali

    (School of Arts and Humanities, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia)

  • Masood Fathi

    (School of Engineering Science, University of Skovde, P.O. Box 408, 54128 Skovde, Sweden
    Division of Industrial Engineering and Management, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 534, 75121 Uppsala, Sweden)

Abstract

Developing sustainable products and processes is essential for the survival of manufacturers in the current competitive market and the industry 4.0 era. The activities of manufacturers and their supply chain partners should be aligned with sustainable development goals. Manufacturers have faced many barriers and challenges in implementing sustainable practices along the entire supply chain due to globalisation, outsourcing, and offshoring. Blockchain technology has the potential to address the challenges of sustainability. This study aims to explain the applications of blockchain technology to sustainable manufacturing. We conducted a systematic literature review and explained the potential contributions of blockchain technology to the economic, environmental, and social performances of manufacturers and their supply chains. The findings of the study extend our understanding of the blockchain applications in sustainable manufacturing and sustainable supply chains. Furthermore, the study explains how blockchain can influence the sustainable performance of manufacturers by creating transparency, traceability, real-time information sharing, and security of the data capabilities.

Suggested Citation

  • Ahmad A. A. Khanfar & Mohammad Iranmanesh & Morteza Ghobakhloo & Madugoda Gunaratnege Senali & Masood Fathi, 2021. "Applications of Blockchain Technology in Sustainable Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management: A Systematic Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(14), pages 1-20, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:14:p:7870-:d:594138
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    References listed on IDEAS

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