Mapping the Landscape of Sustainable Procurement: A Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

Sustainable procurement (SP) has emerged as a strategic mechanism for integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into organizational decision-making. This study aims to synthesize and analyze the intellectual and thematic development of SP research through a systematic literature review (SLR) combined with bibliometric analysis. Using the PRISMA framework, 4,425 Scopus-indexed publications were initially identified, from which 138 peer-reviewed journal articles met the inclusion criteria for in-depth analysis. The findings reveal a significant increase in research attention since 2012, reflecting SP’s evolution from a compliance-based policy tool to a strategic capability that drives innovation and sustainability performance. Five major thematic clusters were identified: (1) sustainability in public procurement, (2) the role of SP in the circular economy, (3) sustainable construction, (4) the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR), and (5) SP in higher education. Theoretically, the study draws on institutional theory, stakeholder theory, and the resource-based view to explain how external pressures, stakeholder expectations, and organizational capabilities jointly influence SP adoption and implementation. The results underscore the importance of robust institutional frameworks, leadership, and capability-building in advancing sustainable procurement. Finally, the study highlights future research opportunities in digital transformation, cross-sectoral collaboration, and the measurement of SP’s contribution to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) outcomes, thereby offering actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and academics.