Systematic literature review: sustainability practices in the metalworking industry

Abstract

This study aims to identify research based on the use of sustainability practices employed by metalworking industries through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). The SLR was conducted in the Web of Science and Scopus databases using the search strings Sustain* AND “metalworking industry,” identifying 68 texts. Analysis shows that, in terms of the objectives and focus of the articles, 42.86% indicate concerns with production chains and waste generation, 42.86% focus on practices to reduce costs and increase process efficiency and sustainability, and 14.28% specifically address environmental aspects in accordance with ISO 14001 requirements. There has been an increase in publications since 2021, editorial dispersion, and a prevalence of applied methodological designs. Scientific production is concentrated in European and Asian countries, highlighting gaps in regions such as Latin America and the lack of consistent integration of social and strategic management dimensions. These results indicate that the field remains in an incipient stage of maturity and reinforce the need to expand interdisciplinarity and geographical coverage to consolidate advances in the sustainability of the metalworking industry.