Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Sustainable Development: A Bibliometric Analysis

Artificial intelligence and business models in the sustainable development goals perspective: A systematic literature review

Food waste is a critical issue with implications for consumers, environmental sustainability, and supply chain dynamics. The primary objective of this research was to conduct a bibliometric analysis of recent literature on food waste, using Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus to identify gaps for future research projects especially on the field of food waste and sustainable food waste management. This approach allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the performance and efficiency of scientific research in this area. The use of both databases was a distinctive aspect of the study, as previous research has typically relied on a single database. The study analysed publication trends between 2019 and 2024, focusing on highly cited documents, research areas, and keyword co-occurrence patterns, highlighting the growing relevance and importance of sustainability. In particular, there has been a significant increase in research published in environmental sciences, engineering, and energy fuels since 2020, reflecting the growing recognition of the role of food waste in reducing environmental footprints and enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability. The keyword analysis showed that between 2021 and 2023, the dominant themes were circular economy, sustainable development, development goals, supply chains, and life cycle assessments. More recent publications have shifted towards topics such as artificial intelligence, Sustainable Development Goals, empirical analysis, energy transition and green marketing. The research shows that the hospitality industry plays a crucial role in the sustainable food waste management, with effective strategies involving management practices, employee training, consumer behavior, and digital technologies offering both environmental and economic benefits. Further research is needed to explore the influence of cultural, institutional, emotional, and demographic factors, as well as the potential of circular economy models and platform-based solutions to enhance waste reduction and sustainability in different contexts. • A bibliometric analysis on food waste was performed using WOS and Scopus databases • The bibliometric analysis highlighted the global distribution of publications, with the UK, Italy, Spain, China, and the US leading in terms of output • Between 2021 and 2023, the dominant themes were circular economy, sustainable development, development goals, supply chains, and life cycle assessments • Recent publications moved towards sustainable development and bibliometric analysis, environmental sustainability and responsibility, circular business and economy. • The integration of circular economy approach into sustainability goals is a key strategy for reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency

Objective: This study examines the role of customs cooperation in trade facilitation within the ASEAN region, with a particular focus on its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the research aims to analyze the impact of ASEAN’s customs integration initiatives on regional economic growth (SDG 8), cross-border trade efficiency, and sustainable industrial development (SDG 9), while emphasizing the role of international and regional partnerships (SDG 17) in strengthening trade governance. Theoretical Framework: The study is grounded in international trade law and regional economic integration theories, emphasizing the role of regulatory cooperation in trade facilitation. It draws upon WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the World Customs Organization (WCO) standards, and ASEAN’s legal instruments governing trade and customs procedures. The SDG framework is utilized to evaluate the broader socio-economic and environmental impacts of trade facilitation, with a particular emphasis on its contribution to inclusive economic growth (SDG 8), industrial development and innovation (SDG 9), and global trade partnerships (SDG 17). Method: A qualitative research approach is adopted, utilizing legal and policy analysis of ASEAN trade facilitation agreements, reports from international organizations, and empirical studies on regional trade efficiency. Comparative analysis is employed to assess the disparities in customs infrastructure, digitalization, and regulatory alignment among ASEAN member states, highlighting how these factors influence the achievement of sustainable industrialization (SDG 9) and the facilitation of cross-border trade partnerships (SDG 17). Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that ASEAN’s customs cooperation mechanisms have significantly streamlined cross-border trade procedures, reducing transaction costs and improving regional economic integration. These advancements have enhanced economic productivity and job creation (SDG 8) and supported the modernization of trade-related infrastructure (SDG 9). However, challenges persist, including legal inconsistencies in customs regulations, disparities in digital capabilities among AMS, and institutional barriers arising from ASEAN’s consensus-based decision-making model. These limitations hinder the full implementation of paperless trade initiatives and the efficiency of customs data exchange, restricting ASEAN’s ability to foster strong international trade partnerships (SDG 17). Research Implications: The study highlights the necessity for ASEAN to develop a harmonized legal framework for cross-border data flows, enhance digital infrastructure in less-developed AMS, and advance the legal unification of customs regulations. Strengthening institutional agility in ASEAN decision-making is also critical for expediting trade facilitation reforms. These recommendations are essential for enhancing economic opportunities (SDG 8), promoting digital and industrial innovation (SDG 9), and fostering a more integrated and rules-based multilateral trade system (SDG 17). Originality/Value: This research contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive legal and policy analysis of ASEAN customs cooperation in the context of trade facilitation and sustainable development. By integrating trade law principles with sustainable economic growth (SDG 8), industrial modernization (SDG 9), and global trade partnerships (SDG 17), the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, trade negotiators, and businesses engaged in ASEAN’s economic integration.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one revolutionary technology that has the potential to hasten the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. AI mechanisms play a crucial role in enhancing governance mechanisms by improving decision-making, transparency, efficiency and accountability across various domains, including public administration, corporate governance and regulatory oversight. AI applications have great potential to enhance progress towards the SDGs through the fostering of innovation and efficiency improvement, and to address global challenges in different areas like education, health, environmental sustainability and industry. However, AI applications and impacts on SDG are multifaceted. AI and the SDGs have a symbiotic relationship. While AI can accelerate progress towards these goals, its development must be aligned with ethical considerations and responsible governance to ensure it contributes to inclusive growth and doesn’t exacerbate inequalities. While AI can drive innovation, enhance productivity and provide solutions for critical issues like poverty eradication, healthcare and sustainable agriculture, its development and application must be aligned with strategic internal and external pre-decision mechanisms and effective governance mechanisms to ensure compliance and ethical use, avoid inequalities and reduce its potential harmful impacts. This chapter sheds lights on synergy between governance, AI and SDGs with emphasis on policy implications.

Research background: The realization of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 hinges on the sustained growth of both the economy and the global employment outlook. In order to ensure progress in fostering inclusive and equitable growth and employment opportunities, it is essential to undertake a comprehensive analysis of the SDG findings across all relevant subtargets. Purpose of the article: This study provides an in-depth analysis of the research surrounding SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), emphasizing its pivotal role in sustainable development. Methods: Utilizing the PRISMA framework and BERTopic method, it explores the intricate interconnections between SDG 8 and other goals, such as reducing inequalities (SDG 10), clean energy (SDG 7), climate action (SDG 13), poverty alleviation (SDG 1), and innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9). Findings & value added: The findings emphasize the importance of subtarget 8.1 (sustained per capita growth) and subtarget 8.5 (full employment and decent work for all). Additionally, the study underscores the need for policies supporting resource efficiency and sustainable consumption (subtarget 8.4), while green innovation and the digital economy are strongly linked to subtarget 8.2 (enhanced productivity through technological upgrading). Ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and equitable, as outlined in subtarget 8.3, is crucial for reducing inequalities. Policymakers must balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, promoting decent work conditions (subtarget 8.8) and adopting green technologies. These findings offer valuable insights for advancing SDG 8, ensuring that economic progress benefits all segments of society while safeguarding natural resources and fostering long-term prosperity.

Artisanal small-scale mining (ASM) is a critical means of livelihood for many, particularly in Ghana's rural mining communities, providing substantial financial support for households. However, illegal ASM activities have engendered pervasive apprehensions due to their adverse environmental repercussions and sustainability impediments. This review examines the positive benefits as well as the negative implications of illegal ASM on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), drawing on empirical evidence from primary research articles and grey literature. This review paper used a systematic approach to gather and analyse relevant literature. An extensive literature search was conducted across databases, including Web of Science Core Collection, EMBASE, GEOBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, focusing on peer-reviewed journal publications and relevant grey literature. The inclusion criteria focused on key themes relevant to the topic, while the exclusion criteria eliminated content that did not meet standards, including doubtful or predatory sources. The data extraction summarised findings and conclusions to highlight trends and gaps. A qualitative synthesis provided an overview and a potential guide for future research. The findings reveal that illegal ASM has resulted in significant contamination of freshwater resources. Analysis of water samples found concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits, with values of 0.28, 0.13, 0.30, and 0.03mg/l, respectively. Similarly, sediment analysis demonstrated concentrations of these heavy metals above sediment quality guidelines, with 22.92mg/kg for arsenic, 5.41mg/kg for cadmium, 98.01mg/kg for lead, and 0.81mg/kg for mercury. Furthermore, specific river sediment concentrations surpassed guideline values, particularly in the Birim River and others. Over the period from April 2013 to June 2024, approximately 377 artisanal small-scale miners perished due to mine pit collapses. Additionally, a 25% reduction in forest cover has occurred in Southwestern Ghana within the last decade, with artisanal mining activities impacting an estimated 2,700 hectares of land and encroaching on 800 hectares of protected areas. Notwithstanding the beneficial contributions of ASM to SDG 1 and 2, namely job creation and income generation for rural mining communities, the detrimental impacts of ASM appear to surpass the benefits. Illegal ASM disrupts progress towards numerous SDGs, including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 15: Life on Land. This review calls for stakeholders, especially governments, to address small-scale mining's problems. ASM offers economic benefits, but its adverse impact on health, environment, and sustainability requires balanced regulation and support for sustainable practices. Responsible policymaking is crucial as ASM grows globally, with major impacts on local communities and the environment. Policymakers must work with ASM operators, civil society, and experts to develop and implement a plan that promotes responsible mining, protects the environment, and secures the long-term viability of this key economic activity.

The special issue on Managing Artificial Intelligence for Accelerating the Implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, positioning it within the urgent global context of advancing the 2030 Agenda. The special issue is closely aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by examining how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can act as a catalyst for comprehensive, sustainable, and data-driven development across critical areas such as poverty reduction, healthcare, education, climate action, and sustainable cities. In the current scenario, which is marked by rapid digital transformation, increasing global inequalities, and escalating environmental challenges, AI presents both unprecedented opportunities and complex ethical considerations. This issue addresses these dynamics by emphasising responsible AI governance, equitable access, and the integration of technological innovation with human-centred development principles. A distinctive feature of this special issue lies in the diversity of its contributions, bringing together interdisciplinary research, policy analyses, and applied case studies from academics, practitioners, and policymakers across different regions and sectors. The collection reflects a balance between theoretical insights and real-world applications, including contributions from both conference presentations and open-call submissions. The uniqueness of this issue is further demonstrated through its comprehensive thematic coverage-spanning governance, business transformation, and environmental sustainability while maintaining a strong focus on actionable outcomes and global collaboration. By bridging gaps between research, policy, and practice, this special issue offers timely and relevant insights for accelerating SDG implementation in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Sustainable Development Goals; Digital Transformation; Technological Innovation; Human-Centred Development; Ethical Considerations. Citation: Ahmed, A. and Naim, A. (2026): Managing Artificial Intelligence for Accelerating the Implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. World Journal of Science, Technology and Sustainable Development (WJSTSD), Vol. 21, Nos. 1/2/3, pp. 1-10. WASD: London, United Kingdom.

Quality education is an effective instrument for promoting economic development. It equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to secure improved employment, achieve higher earnings and contribute to the economy. This study critically analyses the relationship between economic development and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) – Quality Education within the context of education for sustainable development. It aims to explore the dearth of traditional economic development paradigms in promoting holistic human well-being and propose alternative approaches that prioritise high-quality education to achieve sustainable development. This study draws on the sustainable development concept articulated and expanded by various scholars in the literature that was reviewed. It further explores the principles of education for sustainable development (ESD) as outlined by UNESCO and analyses various economic frameworks such as the Green Economy, Well-being Economics and Doughnut Economics. As a conceptual study, the researcher reviewed existing literature on economic development, sustainable development and education. The study synthesises findings from various studies to critically analyse the interplay between economic growth and quality education. Furthermore, the findings emphasise the potential of ESD in promoting sustainable development. The analysis reveals that traditional economic development paradigms, which focus heavily on GDP growth, often neglect social equity and environmental sustainability, thereby resulting in a failure to advance holistic human well-being. In contrast, integrating quality education as a core component of development strategies may significantly contribute to the progress towards sustainable development. Education empowers individuals, by equipping the with knowledge and skills, encourages critical thinking and promotes environmental stewardship. As a result, education helps to align economic operations with broader social and environmental objectives. This study emphasises the need for policymakers to embrace holistic and inclusive approaches for economic development that give priority to quality education. Reforms in educational systems are necessary to prioritise critical thinking and sustainability. Additionally, investments should be made in teacher training and interdisciplinary learning. The findings support the need to transition from growth-centric development models that prioritise economic growth to models that consider and balance economic, social and environmental objectives, ensuring a future that is both sustainable and equitable.

Green construction procurement is a part of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) that influence economic growth on a strategic level. Adopting green technologies and practices has no longer been an option but a well-worth route for gaining a competitive advantage in the construction sector. The emergent concepts of green procurement and sustainability have raised the need to measure the financial performances in supply chain practices. Green procurement is now gaining importance in the construction industry and supply chain practices for a safer tomorrow. The study aimed to investigate the impact of construction procurement on green logistic services, innovation practices, and their subsequent role in gaining sustainable economic development goals. The population frame for this study was the project teams (engineers and project managers) of construction companies in China. The sampling design followed was convenient random sampling. The study was conducted using self-administered questionnaire surveys to avoid any respondent biases and/or errors. The study's findings show that construction procurement is partially associated with green logistic services management, which thoroughly determines the sustainable economic development goals. Furthermore, construction procurement is found to have a significant impact on green innovation practices that partially predict the SDGs, and the mediation of green logistic services and innovation practices are partially mediated to the construction procurement and sustainable goals. In the future, the study results will help the construction practitioners, contractors, bidders, and engineering community to shape their relationships in a greener way up or down the stream of their supply chains. Additionally, the implication of green procurement and logistic services offers many challenges in the long run for attaining SDGs; however, in the short run, it gives operational efficiency and less hazardous environmental emissions.

This study assesses the alignment of tourism management practices in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, it focuses on SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The research evaluates tourism types, facilities, annual tourist arrivals, and accreditation of providers within Local Government Units (LGUs). Key management practices examined include planning, infrastructure development, economic and environmental initiatives, marketing, community engagement, and sustainability efforts. Findings reveal that tourism in Nueva Ecija is predominantly ecotourism-based, with emerging potential in adventure, religious, and agro-tourism. While the region possesses various facilities and increasing tourist arrivals, gaps exist in infrastructure, marketing, and community involvement. Most tourism establishments are Department of Tourism (DOT)-accredited, yet participation in national tourism bodies remains limited. Alignment with the SDGs is moderate; SDG 15 (Life on Land) is strongly supported, while SDG 12, SDG 13, and SDG 14 show emerging alignment. Influencing factors include government policies, stakeholder collaboration, tourist preferences, and economic and environmental conditions. The study culminates in a proposed strategic plan for enhancing tourism’s SDG alignment, recommending improvements in infrastructure, community engagement, sustainability practices, marketing, and governance to foster inclusive and resilient tourism development. These findings provide actionable insights for local and global contexts, supporting sustainable tourism growth.

As urbanization has increased rapidly, the issue of sustainability has become more prominent, and urban sustainability should be the key to achieving the sustainable agenda raised by the UN. This study combines bibliometrics and text mining to analyze the research progress of urban sustainability. A total of 1,031 keywords from 240 documents screened by the PRISMA method are coded to draw heat maps in accordance with the sustainable triple bottom line principle and its cross-scope (Environment, Society, Economics, Environment & Society, Environment & Economics, Society & Economics, Environment, and Society & Economics) with its emphasis on 17 SDGs. The innovation of this study is manifested as the use of heat maps. The results indicate that the existing relevant research still focuses on environmental protection. Besides the general “sustainability” topics, “land use,” “decision-making,” “green city,” and “eco-city” have been more discussed than others. For the SDGs, the SDG 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, and 15 represent clean water, affordable and clean energy, industry, innovation and infrastructure, sustainable cities and communities, and responsible consumption and production and life on land, respectively. Only a small part of the research has begun to focus on the sustainable development of the community. More comprehensive and complete insights should be gained into sustainable development. This study suggests that the research on urban sustainability will be further deepened, and it should be significantly integrated with SGDs and place a focus on the coupling of urban sustainability and economic growth.

The environmental degradation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region leads to significant challenges regarding economic sustainability and the attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs). The extensive use of fossil fuels in the region, as well as rapid urbanization and economic growth, has led to significant carbon emissions, together with unprecedented ecological footprints compromising environmental sustainability. The study aims to elucidate the influence exerted by technological innovation, trade openness, and natural resources on environmental sustainability in Turkey and Egypt for the period 1990–2022. In assessing the empirical relations, the study employed the Fourier function incorporate estimation techniques, that is, Fourier ADF for unit root test, Fourier ARDL, and Fourier NARDL for long-run and short-run elasticities of technological innovation (TI), trade openness (TO,) and natural resources rent (NRR) on load capacity factor (LCF) and inverted LCF (ILCF); finally, the directional causality evaluate through Fourier TY causality test. The results revealed that both Turkey and Egypt have severe environmental problems due to their high carbon emissions and ecological footprints. Technological change and international trade separately negatively affect environmental sustainability; however, these negative impacts have mixed character. On the one hand, technology can improve efficiency and reduce ecological footprints by obviating the use of high-impact processes or allowing cleaner production systems. In the same vein, trade openness helps transfer green technologies more quickly, but it can also lead to unsustainable resource extraction and pollution. The findings of the paper propose that in order to move forward, Turkey and Egypt need strategic policy shifts to ensure environmental sustainability, including transitioning towards renewable energy from fossil fuels while bolstering their capacity for energy efficiency. Policymakers must balance economic development with environmental conservation to reduce the harmful effects of climate degradation and help safeguard continued economic survival in the face of increasing climatic instability. This research helps to inform policy and investment decisions about how the SDGs can be achieved and how they are relevant for sustainable development in the MENA region.

Background: In line with the advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI), innovative solutions have been designed to improve healthrelated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Accordingly, there is an increasing trend in the realm of AI and SDG research areas. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the trends and patterns of AI research in health-related SDGs using bibliometric analysis. Methods: The bibliometric approach facilitated the identification of key terms and countries from previous research. We used VOSviewer to map and analyze data obtained from three databases: Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. Results: Our findings illustrated that research on health has been a popular area of study in recent years. In particular, we observed a significant increase in research on AI in health-related SDGs during 2015 - 2022. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the trends and patterns of AI research in health-related SDGs using bibliometric analysis. The findings can guide future research by identifying key terms that require further investigation.

PurposeAligned with the global commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, this study investigated the role of mega events in promoting environmentally sustainable behaviors, with a specific focus on Expo 2020 Dubai.Design/methodology/approachThe context of the current study is Expo 2020 Dubai. Data was gathered from a convenience sample of 250 Expo 2020 Dubai visitors, and following data screening, the data was analyzed using AMOS 24 software following a two-step approach.FindingsThe study found that the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices significantly explained visitors’ environmental sustainability awareness. Moreover, the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices and environmental sustainability awareness positively influenced visitors’ awareness of consequences. Personal norms were found to be influenced by environmental sustainability awareness and awareness of consequences, while the relationship between the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices and personal norms was found to be insignificant. Finally, all predictors of intention to adopt environmentally sustainable behaviors were significant, with environmental sustainability awareness having the strongest impact, followed by the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices, personal norms and awareness of consequences.Practical implicationsThese findings contribute valuable insights into the potential influence of mega events on promoting environmentally sustainable behaviors, with implications for event organizers and policymakers working toward sustainable development objectives.Originality/valueDespite the significant impact of mega-events, few studies have explored how their sustainability practices affect environmental awareness and behavior. With rising global concern for climate change, examining the role of events like Expo 2020 Dubai in promoting sustainability is crucial. This research addresses this gap by investigating how mega-events can enhance environmental awareness and sustainable behaviors.

Women occupy a transformative role in advancing nutrition-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). Their contributions as caregivers, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs in food systems position them as key drivers of sustainable food practices. However, structural barriers such as limited education, inadequate financial resources, and entrenched socio-cultural norms often constrain their potential impact. This review synthesizes existing literature to explore the connections between women’s nutrition, eco-friendly dietary practices, and broader sustainable development goals within the framework of inclusive green economies. It examines women’s roles in promoting sustainable food systems and highlights the intersection of gender, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. The paper discusses the influence of women-led initiatives, including community gardening, organic farming, and eco-friendly food enterprises, on food security and environmental preservation. Case studies are presented to showcase successful women-driven projects that have improved dietary diversity, reduced malnutrition, and enhanced sustainability. Findings emphasize that empowering women with education, resources, and leadership opportunities significantly amplifies their contributions to sustainable development. Active participation by women in sustainable food practices not only improves household nutrition but also fosters community-wide benefits in food security and environmental outcomes. Despite these positive impacts, challenges such as unequal access to education, financial constraints, and limited policy support remain pervasive and require targeted solutions. This paper advocates for a multi-faceted approach to maximize women’s potential in achieving nutrition-related SDGs. Key strategies include implementing policies to enhance women’s access to financial resources, delivering capacity-building programs, and fostering leadership development. Integrating green technologies and encouraging community-based initiatives are identified as critical components for ensuring long-term sustainability. In conclusion, this review underscores the vital role of women as agents of change in bridging the gaps between gender, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. Supporting women through comprehensive policies and targeted interventions can accelerate progress toward inclusive green economies while addressing global challenges in nutrition and sustainability. By investing in women’s empowerment, we can create healthier, more equitable, and sustainable societies.