Social Sustainability in Production Systems: an exploration along the supply chain

Abstract

Social sustainability (SS) within the supply chain has emerged as a critically important and increasingly pertinent topic in today’s global business environment. Sustainability has been conceptualized within the framework of the triple bottom line, encompassing environmental, economic, and social dimensions. However, in the current landscape, social sustainability has risen to the forefront, given that the economic and environmental aspects have largely been evaluated and addressed.The concept of social sustainability in supply chain (SSSC) is undergoing a significant evolution, transitioning from a narrow perspective that predominantly centered on individual companies to a more inclusive and integrated approach that encompasses all participants along the supply chain. This recognizes the significance of involving suppliers, sub-suppliers, and other stakeholders in the supply chain.Through a case study of a manufacturing supply chain, we analyse multifaceted factors that significantly influence working conditions and the overall well-being of individuals involved. This analysis serves as a means to enhance overall company performance.This article suggests a new approach to define SSSC, based on the principle that the strategies to improve sustainability are effective only if they impact positively (or at least not negatively) on all the actors in the supply chain.