From carbon-neutral to climate-neutral supply chains: a multidisciplinary review and research agenda

Abstract

PurposeWe conduct a multidisciplinary systematic literature review on climate neutrality in the supply chain. While carbon neutrality has gained prominence, our study argues that achieving carbon neutrality alone is not enough to address climate change effectively, as non-CO2 greenhouse gases (GHG) are potent contributors to global warming.Design/methodology/approachWe used multiple databases, including EBSCO, ProQuest, Science Direct, Emerald and Google Scholar, to identify articles related to climate neutrality in the context of non-CO2 gases. A total of 71 articles in environmental science, climate change, energy systems, agriculture and logistics are reviewed to provide insights into the climate neutrality of supply chains.FindingsWe find that, in addition to CO2, other GHG such as methane, nitrous oxide, ozone and fluorinated gases also significantly contribute to climate change. Our literature review identified several key pillars for achieving net-zero GHG emissions, including end-use efficiency and electrification, clean electricity supply, clean fuel supply, “GHG capture, storage and utilization,” enhanced land sinks, reduced non-CO2 emissions and improved feed and manure management.Originality/valueWe contribute to the literature on climate neutrality of supply chains by emphasizing the significance of non-CO2 GHG along with CO2 and highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to climate neutrality in addressing climate change. This study advances the understanding of climate neutrality of supply chains and contributes to the discourse on effective climate change mitigation strategies. It provides clear future research directions.

Guest editorial: Climate neutral supply chains

“…This special issue aims to provide a platform for academic researchers and practitioners to explore and share insights on how organizations can incorporate their supply chains into the broader global climate change agenda. This aligns with the idea of economic efficiency leading to environmental efficiency and reinforces the critical role of the corporate sector in driving toward a resilient climate neutral future (Oglethorpe and Heron, 2010; Guntuka et al , 2024a, b).…”