This paper explores supply chain sustainability in the context of global industrial shipping, using positivist theories from International Relations, specifically realism and liberalism, to offer insights on how public and private actors influence the management of sustainable supply chains.
The analysis reveals that while realism underscores the role of state‐centric power dynamics and national interest in maintaining supply chains amidst global conflicts, liberalism highlights the importance of international cooperation and regimes in fostering sustainable and resilient sup‐ply chains. The paper illustrates how both perspectives contribute to understanding the broader implications of sustainability in a geopolitical context.
This research provides a framework for policymakers and businesses to navigate the complexities of sustainable supply chain management in a global context. It highlights the importance of balancing national interests with international cooperation to address environmental, social, and economic sustainability challenges in the industrial shipping sector.