Innovate to Sustain: Pillars of a Dynamic Ecosystem—A Systematic Literature Review

This systematic literature review utilizes empirical studies to examine how technological innovation interacts dynamically with the economic, social, environmental, and governance pillars of sustainable development. Following PRISMA guidelines, Scopus was used to identify and screen relevant quantitative empirical articles, ultimately resulting in a final set of 136 articles. Thematic analysis then unveiled research trends, geographical patterns, methodological approaches, and core thematic clusters. The review reveals that technological innovation acts as both an influencer and an outcome across the sustainability spectrum. Economic variables such as foreign direct investment, trade openness, and financial development are critical drivers of innovation. Social factors, notably human capital and equity, not only stimulate but are also enhanced by innovative practices. Furthermore, robust governance, characterized by effective institutions and regulatory frameworks, is essential for fostering innovation, while environmental challenges, particularly those related to sustainable practices and clean energy, create both demand and opportunities for innovative solutions. An integrative conceptual framework is developed to illustrate these complex, multidirectional interactions. The proposed framework highlights innovation’s centrality in forging sustainable development pathways across diverse contexts. It offers a structured foundation for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to design and assess innovation-driven strategies that address multifaceted sustainability imperatives. By consolidating multiple theoretical perspectives into a cohesive framework, this review underscores innovation as pivotal for resilient and equitable global growth. It enriches academic discourse and practical insights, guiding stakeholders toward harnessing innovation for enduring socio-economic and environmental benefits. This review contributes a novel, empirically grounded synthesis that bridges disciplinary gaps and provides an actionable roadmap for advancing sustainability through innovation.