Impact pathways: a call for impactful research in supply chain GHG emissions reduction

PurposeThis impact pathway manuscript motivates and guides operations and supply chain management (OSCM) researchers to deeply consider the role of suppliers in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction. It prompts a reconsideration and update of their understanding of climate change in their research and the positive influence that research could have, specifically on reducing GHG emissions and slowing climate disasters.Design/methodology/approachThe authors use qualitative research methods, including a literature review, interviews with NGOs, focus groups with purchasing professionals and in-depth case studies.FindingsThe results provide insights into purchasing’s role in the engagement of suppliers in GHG emissions reduction efforts as organizations begin to advance the sustainability journey toward suppliers’ emissions reduction and their contribution to improvements in supply chain GHG emissions. The paper calls for more actionable academic research that can contribute to theory and practice.Research limitations/implicationsThis impact pathway article discusses how the topic of GHG supply chain emissions reduction is viewed in both research and practice. The current dire state of the environment and purchasing and supply chain involvement in GHG emissions reduction initiatives points to the need to develop impactful research. The paper closes with guidance on potential future research opportunities.Practical implicationsThe pressure on companies to reduce their GHG emissions has never been more significant, and companies have never before made as many public commitments to reduce their GHG emissions both internally and across the supply chain as they are making today. Managers must truly understand their role in reducing GHG emissions and their supply chain implications.Social implicationsGHG emissions reduction and associated climate change are top issues on the global climate agenda. Reducing emissions (and related climate change) has important positive implications for human health. This is especially true among underrepresented communities, which tend to be disproportionately impacted by living and working in weather-exposed climates with poor air quality.Originality/valueThe authors aim to stimulate new research and discussion through this pathway paper. The climate crisis is real, and the world is missing its GHG reduction targets. If companies limit their efforts and continue to make excuses, the world will continue its path to climate disaster.