Sustainable and Inclusive Supply Chains: Policies, Practices, and Innovations for a Greener Global Economy

Abstract

The transformation of global supply chains (GSCs) toward sustainability and inclusivity has
emerged as a critical driver for achieving a greener, more equitable, and resilient global
economy. Sustainable supply chains seek to minimise environmental impact, optimise resource
use, and reduce waste throughout production, logistics, and end-of-life processes, while inclusive
supply chains aim to ensure fair labour practices, equitable stakeholder participation, and social
justice across value networks. This review synthesises the current body of knowledge on the
policies, strategic practices, and technological innovations that are shaping sustainable and
inclusive supply chains (SISCs). It examines the conceptual foundations, highlighting how
artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and circular economy (CE) principles converge to
enhance efficiency, resilience, and environmental performance. The paper further explores
practical applications, including predictive maintenance, reverse logistics, lifecycle management,
and data-driven sustainability monitoring, demonstrating the tangible benefits of integrating
intelligent and circular approaches. Additionally, the review identifies key barriers, such as
socio-technical challenges, global coordination, governance frameworks, and economic trade-

offs, and outlines critical directions for future research, including the roles of emerging
technologies, ethical AI, and cross-border policy alignment. By providing a comprehensive
synthesis of theory, practice, and policy, this review offers actionable insights for managers,
practitioners, and policymakers aiming to advance sustainability, inclusivity, and
competitiveness within global supply networks, ultimately contributing to the development of
regenerative, adaptive, and socially responsible supply chains for the 21st century.