The role of sustainable supply chain management on improving environmental performance: a longitudinal analysis of CDP data

The study aims at understanding the role played by Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SSCM) in improving companies’ environmental performance. A longitudinal empirical analysis was performed on panel data provided by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) Supply Chain Program. The analyses showed that supply chain engagement, directly and indirectly, affects multiple aspects of environmental performances. Furthermore, emission reduction investments directly affect the performances as well. The most compelling conclusions revolved around the appearance of inconsistency through time in committing to the sustainability topic and the need for a more effective collaboration with the engaged partners.