Exploring synergies between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 for digital, resilient and sustainable supply chains: a systems thinking perspective

Abstract

Purpose Global supply chains today confront growing risks, uncertainty, prolonged disruptions and cascading ripple effects that threaten both their resilience and sustainability. This article investigates how the convergence of Industry 4.0's digital enablers with Industry 5.0's human-centric, resilience-oriented and circular economy values can reconcile supply chain resilience with long-term triple bottom line performance. Design/methodology/approach Adopting a qualitative systems-thinking methodology, we conducted a systematic literature review and constructed a causal-loop diagram (CLD) to map the key reinforcing and balancing feedback structures that emerge when Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 principles interact in supply chain contexts. Findings Our analysis reveals that Industry 4.0 technologies, real-time visibility, modularity and automation, strengthen immediate supply chain resilience but frequently overlook environmental and social dimensions. Overlaying Industry 5.0 values such as resource efficiency, smart circular design, workforce upskilling and sustainable business models restores balance by catalysing resource conservation, circular innovation and people-focused practices. The CLD highlights leverage points where digital platforms, circular solutions and human-centric initiatives jointly drive resilient, sustainable performance. Practical implications The proposed CLD functions as a decision-support framework for supply chain managers. It guides integrated investments in digital infrastructure, circular economy transitions and workforce development, offering a roadmap for evolving from an Industry 4.0 to an Industry 5.0 paradigm that delivers both resilience and sustainability within supply chains. Originality/value By unifying two previously siloed research streams, this study provides a novel conceptual framework that surfaces the dynamic interplay between digital and human-centric paradigms. It offers both theoretical insights and actionable guidance for designing supply chains that are resilient, equitable and environmentally responsible.