A systematic literature review of blockchain technology and environmental sustainability: Status quo and future research

Abstract

This study conducted a systematic literature review on the function and potential of blockchain technology in promoting environmental sustainability to achieve sustainable development goals (SDG 7 and SDG 13). We chronologically explored theoretical viewpoints, analytical frameworks, measures, relationships, and procedures from 2015 to 2022 to examine the relationship between blockchain technology and environmental sustainability. We followed a four-step methodology (planning, execution, analysis, and reporting) based on Tranfield et al.’s (2003) approach. The extensively preferred PRISMA technique was adopted for conducting a systematic literature review. VOSviewer program was used in this study for bibliometric analysis. The contribution of this study is that this is the first one to use a bibliometric analysis and SLR on the topic of blockchain technology, environment, and green finance from the standpoint of the SDGs, specifically SDG 7 and SDG 13. The findings suggest that to attain environmental sustainability, new approaches are required. New methods to achieve environmental sustainability are possible because of emerging technology like blockchain. Policymakers will benefit from understanding the effect of market interference and the available choices while considering their disruptive consequences. The findings are beneficial for political institutions in establishing the political and legal environment required to develop successful green blockchain applications.