Towards net-zero supply chains: the Industry 4.0 technology's catalysts in emission reduction

The growing emphasis on achieving net-zero emissions and addressing climate change has driven interest in integrating Industry 4.0 technologies into supply chain operations. As supply chain emissions fall under scope 3 - indirect emissions across a company's value chain - reducing them to net-zero remains highly challenging. This study systematically reviews recent literature on the application of Industry 4.0 technologies and emission reduction strategies in supply chains to support the transition to net-zero. Using the PRISMA methodology, 65 relevant articles were identified, analysed, and classified based on the potential of 13 essential Industry 4.0 technologies and 13 emission reduction practices. The findings highlight their roles in enabling net-zero supply chains, alongside the associated benefits and challenges at the firm level. Furthermore, the study identifies research gaps and offers directions for future research to explore the complex dynamics of integrating these technologies and practices within supply chain networks for effective emissions mitigation.