Track Chairs
-
G. Shainesh, Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, Indiashaineshg@iimb.ac.in
-
Cecilia Soler, University of Gothenburg, Swedencecilia.soler@handels.gu.se
Goals and Objectives of the Track
Global trade serves as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction, playing a vital role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the pursuit of cost optimization—driven by businesses seeking offshore procurement advantages and consumers demanding affordable products—often generates significant social and environmental externalities through extended, energy-intensive supply chains.
Sustainable value chains offer a pathway for businesses to harmonize economic, social, and environmental objectives. Leading organizations are increasingly transitioning toward sustainable practices to address persistent societal and environmental challenges. Simultaneously, heightened consumer awareness of climate change is driving demand for ethical and sustainable products, creating both market opportunities and imperatives for transformation.
This track seeks to advance scholarly understanding of how sustainable value chains can be designed, implemented, and scaled to achieve meaningful impact while maintaining economic viability.
Topics of Interest
We invite submissions addressing (but not limited to) the following themes:
- Innovations in sustainable value chain design and management
- Digital transformation: Applications of AI, blockchain, IoT, drones, and robotics in enabling sustainability
- Market-based governance mechanisms: Certifications, direct sourcing, corporate brand initiatives, and public-private partnerships for multi-stakeholder engagement
- Environmental commitments: Zero-deforestation pledges, circular economy models, and regenerative practices
- Green supply chain strategies: Carbon footprint reduction, renewable energy integration, and sustainable logistics
- Collaborative ecosystems: Networks and partnerships among NGOs, businesses, and governments
- Consumer behavior: Emerging trends in sustainable consumption and their influence on corporate strategy
- Trade policy and regulation: Impact of sustainability standards on international trade flows
- Measurement and accountability: Frameworks for assessing and reporting value chain sustainability performance
Submission Guidelines
Abstract Requirements (300-500 words):
Submissions should be structured to clearly communicate:
Context and research question: Background and objectives
Methodology: Research design and analytical approach
Key findings/expected contributions: Results or anticipated insights
Implications: Theoretical, practical, or policy relevance
Mandatory Requirements:
SDG alignment: Explicitly identify relevant SDG(s) and target(s)
Example format: SDG 12.2, SDG 14.1
Conference theme connection: Briefly explain how your work relates to the conference’s overarching focus
Note: Abstracts lacking both SDG alignment and a connection to the conference theme may receive lower priority during review.
References are optional but may be included if they strengthen your submission.
Publication Opportunities
Depending on the quality and thematic coherence of accepted papers, the track chairs will explore opportunities for a journal special issue. Authors of high-quality contributions will be invited to develop their work for publication consideration. For inquiries about publication prospects or track-specific questions, please contact the Track Chairs directly.