An Overview of the Concept of Green Logistics in Terms of Sustainability and Business Practices: A Bibliographic Analysis

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to examine how the concepts of green logistics and sustainability are addressed in the academic literature through a bibliographic analysis method. By analyzing academic publications in the Web of Science database from 2000 to 2024, the study seeks to identify key research themes, conceptual linkages, and gaps in the literature within the field of green logistics. Additionally, it aims to provide a guiding framework for future research by exploring how sustainable business practices are associated with green logistics. Design/methodology/approach - This study employs a bibliographic analysis method to systematically examine the academic literature on green logistics and sustainability. Publications indexed in the Web of Science database between 2000 and 2024 were analyzed, and key concepts, thematic trends, and research gaps were identified through content analysis. To visualize the data and reveal conceptual connections, co-occurrence analyses were conducted using VOSviewer software. Findings – The keywords frequently studied in the field of green logistics are sustainability, carbon emissions, green supply chain, reverse logistics and supply chain management. In addition, it is seen that research on the concept of green logistics has increased after 2020. Finally, it was concluded that green logistics practices have an impact on business performance. Discussion – The number of bibliometric studies on green logistics practices is almost negligible. The research is important in terms of examining the historical development of the concept. It also contributes to the literature.