dEjournals Home Page
International Journal of Engineering and Management Sciences
Register Current issue Forthcoming Archives Indexing & Abstracting Submission Contact Search
Register Login
IJEMS

Online first
Management Sciences

Sustainable and Competitive? The Dual-Role of Information Systems in Green Supply Chain Operations

Published:
2026-07-15
DOI Linkhttps://doi.org/10.21791/IJEMS.2026.10
Authors
Issa Zayed Hattar,
Tímea Gál
View
PDF
Keywords
Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) Digital Transformation Information Systems Competitive Advantage Theory-Building
License

Copyright (c) 2026 Issa Zayed Hattar, Tímea Gál

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How To Cite
Selected Style: APA
Hattar, I. Z., & Gál, T. (2026). Sustainable and Competitive? The Dual-Role of Information Systems in Green Supply Chain Operations. International Journal of Engineering and Management Sciences, 1-15. https://doi.org/10.21791/IJEMS.2026.10
Received 2026-04-06
Accepted 2026-07-14
Published 2026-07-15
Abstract

This is a conceptual theory-building paper that questions the notion of a "trade-off narrative" between sustainable supply chain management. It claims that advanced Information Systems (IS) play a crucial dual function in designing the co-construction of environmental and competitive value. The paper proposes a Dual-Role framework based on an abductive analysis of modern literature, mapping the synergistic impact pathways of these technologies. The framework proposes that the Internet of Things (IoT) allows data-driven closed-loop control, blockchain provides cryptographic trust, Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers predictive intelligence for systemic leanness, and cloud platforms offer orchestration and alignment. The framework results in a series of research propositions that can be tested and specify the likely conditions for this dual value creation. We argue that strategically located IS can transform sustainability from a constraint on operations to a parameter of the design for competitive advantage. This study offers a propositional theory for scholars to guide empirical research, as well as a principled rationale for managers to view digital investments as a foundation for planetary and business resilience.

References
  1. [1] Z. A. Saqib and Q. Zhang, “Impact of sustainable practices on sustainable performance: The moderating role of supply chain visibility,” Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 32, no. 7, pp. 1421–1443, 2021, doi: 10.1108/JMTM-10-2020-0403
  2. [2] C. J. Corbett and R. D. Klassen, “Extending the horizons: Environmental excellence as key to improving operations,” Journal of Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 5–22, 2006, doi: 10.1287/msom.1060.0095.
  3. [3] R. Gabryelczyk, “Has COVID-19 accelerated digital transformation? Initial lessons learned for public administrations,” Information Systems Management, vol. 37, no. 4, pp. 303–309, 2020, doi: 10.1080/10580530.2020.1820633
  4. [4] M. Pournader, H. Ghaderi, A. Hassanzadegan, and B. Fahimnia, “Artificial intelligence applications in supply chain management,” International Journal of Production Economics, vol. 241, paper 108250, 2021, doi: 10.1016/j.ijpe.2021.108250
  5. [5] F. V. Bekun, A. A. Alola, and S. A. Sarkodie, “Toward a sustainable environment: Nexus between CO2 emissions, resource rent, renewable and nonrenewable energy in 16-EU countries,” Science of the Total Environment, vol. 657, pp. 1023–1029, 2019, doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.12.104
  6. [6] M. Ben-Daya, E. Hassini, Z. Bahroun, and B. H. Banimfreg, “The role of internet of things in food supply chain quality management: A review,” Quality Management Journal, vol. 28, no. 1, pp. 17–40, 2020, doi: 10.1080/10686967.2020.1838978
  7. [7] Bharadwaj, O. A. El Sawy, P. A. Pavlou, and N. Venkatraman, “Digital business strategy: Toward a next generation of insights,” MIS Quarterly, vol. 37, no. 2, pp. 471–482, 2013, doi: 10.25300/MISQ/2013/37:2.3
  8. [8] L. L. Gilson and C. B. Goldberg, “Editors’ comment: So, what is a conceptual paper?,” Group & Organization Management, vol. 40, no. 2, pp. 127–130, 2015, doi: 10.1177/1059601115576425
  9. [9] E. Jaakkola, “Designing conceptual articles: Four approaches,” AMS Review, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 18–26, 2020, doi: 10.1007/s13162-020-00161-0
  10. [10] J. Cornelissen, “Editor’s comments: Developing propositions, a process model, or a typology? Addressing the challenges of writing theory without a boilerplate,” Academy of Management Review, vol. 42, no. 1, pp. 1–9, 2017, doi: 10.5465/amr.2016.0196
  11. [11] M. Alvesson and J. Sandberg, “Generating research questions through problematization,” Academy of Management Review, vol. 36, no. 2, pp. 247–271, 2011, doi: 10.5465/amr.2009.0188
  12. [12] M. Ben-Daya, E. Hassini, and Z. Bahroun, “Internet of things and supply chain management: A literature review,” International Journal of Production Research, vol. 57, no. 15–16, pp. 4719–4742, 2019, doi: 10.1080/00207543.2017.1402140
  13. [13] D. Ivanov, A. Dolgui, and B. Sokolov, “Cloud supply chain: Integrating Industry 4.0 and digital platforms in the ‘Supply Chain-as-a-Service’,” Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, vol. 160, paper 102676, 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.tre.2022.102676
  14. [14] B. M. Lindgren, B. Lundman, and U. H. Graneheim, “Abstraction and interpretation during the qualitative content analysis process,” International Journal of Nursing Studies, vol. 108, paper 103632, 2020, doi: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2020.103632
  15. [15] Dubois and L. E. Gadde, “Systematic combining: An abductive approach to case research,” Journal of Business Research, vol. 55, no. 7, pp. 553–560, 2002, doi: 10.1016/S0148-2963(00)00195-8
  16. [16] M. Naeem, W. Ozuem, K. Howell, and S. Ranfagni, “A step-by-step process of thematic analysis to develop a conceptual model in qualitative research,” International Journal of Qualitative Methods, vol. 22, paper 16094069231205789, 2023, doi: 10.1177/16094069231205789
  17. [17] D. A. Whetten, “What constitutes a theoretical contribution?,” Academy of Management Review, vol. 14, no. 4, pp. 490–495, 1989, doi: 10.5465/amr.1989.4308371
  18. [18] S. L. Hart, “A natural-resource-based view of the firm,” Academy of Management Review, vol. 20, no. 4, pp. 986–1014, 1995, doi: 10.5465/amr.1995.9512280033
  19. [19] K. Nayal, S. Kumar, R. D. Raut, M. M. Queiroz, P. Priyadarshinee, and B. E. Narkhede, “Supply chain firm performance in circular economy and digital era to achieve sustainable development goals,” Business Strategy and the Environment, vol. 31, no. 3, pp. 1058–1073, 2022, doi: 10.1002/bse.2935
  20. [20] D. Bechtsis, N. Tsolakis, E. Iakovou, and D. Vlachos, “Data-driven secure, resilient and sustainable supply chains: Gaps, opportunities, and a new generalised data sharing and data monetisation framework,” International Journal of Production Research, vol. 60, no. 14, pp. 4397–4417, 2022, doi: 10.1080/00207543.2021.1957506
  21. [21] M. Tu, M. K. Lim, and M. F. Yang, “IoT-based production logistics and supply chain system–Part 2: IoT-based cyber-physical system: A framework and evaluation,” Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 118, no. 1, pp. 96–125, 2018, doi: 10.1108/IMDS-11-2016-0504
  22. [22] Parmentola, A. Petrillo, I. Tutore, and F. De Felice, “Is blockchain able to enhance environmental sustainability? A systematic review and research agenda from the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Business Strategy and the Environment, vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 194–217, 2022, doi: 10.1002/bse.2882
  23. [23] M. Nofer, P. Gomber, O. Hinz, and D. Schiereck, “Blockchain,” Business & Information Systems Engineering, vol. 59, no. 3, pp. 183–187, 2017, doi: 10.1007/s12599-017-0467-3
  24. [24] N. Kshetri, “Blockchain and sustainable supply chain management in developing countries,” International Journal of Information Management, vol. 60, paper102376, 2021, doi: 10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2021.102376
  25. [25] S. K. Kim and J. H. Huh, “Blockchain of carbon trading for UN sustainable development goals,” Sustainability, vol. 12, no. 10, paper 4021, 2020, doi: 10.3390/su12104021
  26. [26] P. K. Singh, “Digital transformation in supply chain management: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) as catalysts for value creation,” International Journal of Supply Chain Management, vol. 12, no. 6, pp. 57–63, 2023, doi: 10.59160/ijscm.v12i6.6216
  27. [27] G. Baryannis, S. Validi, S. Dani, and G. Antoniou, “Supply chain risk management and artificial intelligence: State of the art and future research directions,” International Journal of Production Research, vol. 57, no. 7, pp. 2179–2202, 2019, doi: 10.1080/00207543.2018.1530476
  28. [28] F. Petropoulos, D. Apiletti, V. Assimakopoulos, M. Z. Babai, D. K. Barrow, S. B. Taieb, et al., “Forecasting: Theory and practice,” International Journal of Forecasting, vol. 38, no. 3, pp. 705–871, 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.ijforecast.2021.11.001
  29. [29] Bueno, M. Godinho Filho, and A. G. Frank, “Smart production planning and control in the Industry 4.0 context: A systematic literature review,” Computers & Industrial Engineering, vol. 149, paper 106774, 2020, doi: 10.1016/j.cie.2020.106774
  30. [30] R. Abduljabbar, H. Dia, S. Liyanage, and S. A. Bagloee, “Applications of artificial intelligence in transport: An overview,” Sustainability, vol. 11, no. 1, paper 189, 2019, doi: 10.3390/su11010189
  31. [31] S. Jagtap, C. Bhatt, J. Thik, and S. Rahimifard, “Monitoring potato waste in food manufacturing using image processing and internet of things approach,” Sustainability, vol. 11, no. 11, paper 3173, 2019, doi: 10.3390/su11113173
  32. [32] S. Marston, Z. Li, S. Bandyopadhyay, J. Zhang, and A. Ghalsasi, “Cloud computing—The business perspective,” Decision Support Systems, vol. 51, no. 1, pp. 176–189, 2011, doi: 10.1016/j.dss.2010.12.006
  33. [33] G. Büyüközkan and F. Göçer, “Digital supply chain: Literature review and a proposed framework for future research,” Computers in Industry, vol. 97, pp. 157–177, 2018, doi: 10.1016/j.compind.2018.02.010
  34. [34] M. Hettler and L. Graf-Vlachy, “Corporate scope 3 carbon emission reporting as an enabler of supply chain decarbonization: A systematic review and comprehensive research agenda,” Business Strategy and the Environment, vol. 33, no. 2, pp. 263–282, 2024, doi: 10.1002/bse.3486
  35. [35] S. A. R. Khan, A. Z. Piprani, and Z. Yu, “Digital technology and circular economy practices: Future of supply chains,” Operations Management Research, vol. 15, no. 3, pp. 676–688, 2022, doi: 10.1007/s12063-021-00247-3
  36. [36] N. K. Dev, R. Shankar, and F. H. Qaiser, “Industry 4.0 and circular economy: Operational excellence for sustainable reverse supply chain performance,” Resources, Conservation and Recycling, vol. 153, paper 104583, 2020, doi: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2019.104583
  37. [37] J. C. T. Bieser and L. M. Hilty, “Assessing indirect environmental effects of information and communication technology (ICT): A systematic literature review,” Sustainability, vol. 10, no. 8, paper 2662, 2018, doi: 10.3390/su10082662
  38. [38] J. Álvarez Jaramillo, J. W. Zartha Sossa, and G. L. Orozco Mendoza, “Barriers to sustainability for small and medium enterprises in the framework of sustainable development—Literature review,” Business Strategy and the Environment, vol. 28, no. 4, pp. 512–524, 2019, doi: 10.1002/bse.2261
Database Logos
DOAJ MTMT SHERPA EIRHPLUS EBSCO CROSSREF Ulrichsweb Dimensions AI Scilit BASE miar OpenAire Index Copernicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Google Scholar ROAD