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Digital Twins and innovation in sustainability management: a bibliometric analysis, challenges and future directions

Author

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  • Weibo Zhou

    (Daugavpils University, Latvia)

  • Anatolijs Kriviņš

    (Daugavpils University, Latvia)

  • Valters Kaze

    (RISEBA University of Applied Sciences, Latvia)

Abstract

This paper systematically explores the current research status and application potential of digital twin technologies (DTs) in sustainable development management, using bibliometric and segmented regression analyses to reveal the field’s dynamic trends and research hotspots. Based on the analysis of 421 papers extracted from the Scopus database, this paper summarises the vital role of DTs in smart cities, circular economy, and Industry 4.0. It identifies the key challenges to their implementation, including the digital divide, high cost, data privacy protection, and technical complexity. The paper further suggests future research directions through case studies and theory: exploring the integration of DTs with AI, enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration, and developing low-cost implementations. The contribution of this paper is to provide comprehensive academic support and practical suggestions for the application and development of DTs.

Suggested Citation

  • Weibo Zhou & Anatolijs Kriviņš & Valters Kaze, 2025. "Digital Twins and innovation in sustainability management: a bibliometric analysis, challenges and future directions," Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Issues, VsI Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Center, vol. 12(4), pages 291-311, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:ssi:jouesi:v:12:y:2025:i:4:p:291-311
    DOI: 10.9770/e4829634749
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    digital twin; bibliometric analysis; management; SDGs;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • O36 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Open Innovation
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development

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