GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN INTEGRATION AND CARBON FOOTPRINT REDUCTION STRATEGIES IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES

Abstract

Green Supply Chain Integration (GSCI) has evolved into a strategic imperative for manufacturing industries seeking to reconcile economic performance with escalating environmental pressures, including stringent carbon regulations, stakeholder demands for decarbonization, and climate-related risks. This review synthesizes theoretical foundations drawing on Resource-Based View (RBV), Dynamic Capabilities Theory, Institutional Theory, and Natural Resource-Based View to examine how GSCI enables firms to embed environmental considerations across sourcing, production, logistics, and reverse logistics. Key carbon footprint reduction strategies include supplier collaboration for low-carbon materials, energy-efficient manufacturing (LED retrofits, predictive maintenance via digital twins, process optimization), renewable energy adoption (solar/wind onsite generation), electrification of thermal processes, hydrogen and carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) pathways, circular economy practices (closed-loop recycling, eco-design), and advanced logistics (electric/hybrid fleets, route optimization). Empirical evidence from global manufacturing sectors demonstrates 15–40% reductions in Scope 1–3 emissions through integrated GSCI initiatives, often accompanied by cost savings via resource efficiency and enhanced brand value. Challenges such as initial investment barriers, supplier resistance, measurement complexity, and regulatory fragmentation are addressed, alongside emerging enablers like Industry 4.0 technologies and collaborative platforms. The analysis underscores GSCI’s role in building long-term resilience and competitive advantage in a low-carbon economy.