Block-chain for Sustainability: Tracing Environmental Impacts in Supply Chains

Samenvatting

Abstract
The integration of blockchain technology in sustainability efforts represents a transformative approach to trace environmental impacts within supply chains. This paper explores how blockchain can enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in tracking environmental metrics across various industries. By providing a decentralized, immutable ledger, blockchain enables stakeholders to monitor resource consumption, carbon emissions, and waste generation throughout the supply chain lifecycle. The study identifies key blockchain applications, including smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps), that facilitate real-time data sharing among suppliers, manufacturers, and consumers. Through a systematic review of existing literature and case studies, the paper illustrates the practical implementation of blockchain in supply chains, highlighting its potential to foster sustainable practices and promote circular economy principles. Moreover, it discusses the challenges and limitations of adopting blockchain, such as technological barriers, regulatory concerns, and the need for stakeholder collaboration. The findings suggest that while blockchain is not a panacea for all sustainability challenges, its capacity to enhance traceability and transparency can significantly contribute to reducing environmental impacts. Ultimately, this research underscores the importance of integrating blockchain solutions in sustainability frameworks, proposing a model for future research and practical applications that align economic growth with environmental stewardship.