Sustainability in the Knowledge Economy: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends and Policy Perspectives

Integrating sustainability into managerial strategies has become a key research area in the knowledge economy, reflecting the growing need for organizations to adopt environmentally and socially responsible business models. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of sustainability research, highlighting its impact on organizational performance and strategic management. Analyzing the academic output from 2000 to the present, this paper maps the evolution of the sustainability discourse and identifies the main research groups, thematic trends and citation networks in the field.

Using data extracted from the Scopus database, this study applies bibliometric methodologies, including common-word analysis, citation mapping, and Bradford and Lotka’s laws, to track the intellectual structure of sustainability research. Results reveal a steady increase in academic contributions, with a notable acceleration over the last decade, indicating the growing relevance of sustainability as a strategic pillar for organizations. Key themes identified include corporate social responsibility, green innovation, stakeholder engagement and regulatory adaptation.

Accordingly, this paper contributes to the scientific and managerial discourse by providing a structured synthesis of research on sustainability in the knowledge economy. The results provide insight into theoretical advances, research gaps and potential directions for future studies, guiding policy makers, academics and business leaders in developing sustainable business strategies. The study also highlights the role of collaborative research networks in promoting innovation and driving sustainable change in times of disruption.