Enabling a Green Supply Chain with Machine Learning and Industry 4.0: Certain Investigations for Research and Applications

The integration of machine learning (ML) into supply chain management has led to a shift towards Industry 4.0 (I4.0) practices. These practices have the potential to facilitate sustainable business practices through the implementation of a green supply chain (GSC). The adoption of ML-based supply chain strategies has been shown to enhance decision-making, productivity, and system performance at the organizational level. Despite these benefits, research into sustainable supply chains utilizing I4.0 technologies is limited. To address this gap, a systematic literature review was conducted to examine the progress and potential of Industry 4.0 technologies in achieving a greener supply chain. The study thoroughly discussed the role and impact of various I4.0 technologies on the GSC. The findings of this review provide new research directions and scopes for I4.0 research areas that can be beneficial for both academia and industry. These include environmental and operational challenges, as well as the need for skilled professionals to manage and operate these technologies. This study highlights the potential benefits of I4.0 technologies in facilitating sustainable supply chains and provides insight into the challenges and limitations of implementing these technologies. The review also emphasizes the need for further research and development to maximize the potential of I4.0 in achieving a GSC.