Trending research topics on carbon footprint and supply chains: a bibliometric analysis based on the Scopus data (2019–2023)

Abstract This study analyzes the publication trend, most active contributors, most influential publications and trending research topics on the current context of carbon footprint and supply chains. The study conducted a bibliometric analysis of 809 documents retrieved from Scopus, published between 2019 and 2023, to identify trends, contributors, top publications, and trending topics. With the help of Harzing’s Publish or Perish and VOSviewer, the study employed performance analysis and keyword co-occurrence analysis. The study reveals an upward trajectory in the number of publications in this research domain. Additionally, the study identifies several themes through keyword co-occurrence analysis, including ‘the application of regulatory mechanisms and game theory in carbon emission reductions,’ ‘strategies and mechanisms for enhancing low-carbon initiatives within supply chains,’ ‘the development and optimization of sustainable supply chain systems to reduce carbon emissions,’ ‘the use of simulation and optimization models for CO 2 emission reduction in supply chain and logistics operations,’ ‘financial legislation and mechanisms for improving carbon emission reductions,’ ‘the impact of logistics and supply chain operations on carbon emissions and climate change,’ and ‘the carbon footprint in supply chains and cold chain logistics operations.’ This review emphasizes the need of adopting low-carbon technologies to enhance sustainable practices within supply chains. The study highlights the role of advanced technologies in efforts linked to carbon reduction. The study also advocates for a multifaceted policy approach, including encouraging innovation, and implementing financial mechanisms to reduce carbon emissions, especially in logistics and supply chain operations.