Employing innovation for social sustainability in supply chains: A systematic literature review

This paper explores the role of innovation in advancing social sustainability within supply chains, a relatively under-researched area. By conducting a systematic literature review of 28 articles, the study analyzes how innovation reshapes supply chain dynamics and promotes sustainable practices. The review highlights key trends across time and geography, emphasizing the global importance of integrating social value into supply chains. Findings reveal the important role of stakeholder engagement and institutional support in fostering socially responsible supply chain practices. Furthermore, the paper discusses how innovation drives social value creation, providing actionable insights for both research and practice. The study advocates for the integration of sustainability principles into supply chain operations, offering practical implications for academia, industry, and policymakers. By embedding social sustainability in business processes, supply chains can better address contemporary challenges and contribute to broader societal and environmental goals.