Plastic consumption in the digital era: a bibliometric analysis based on author and index keywords

Although plastic is widely used for its affordability and durability, excessive consumption and improper disposal pose serious environmental risks. Digital technologies and ICT offer potential solutions, but bibliometric studies examining plastic consumption through digital innovation remain scarce. Subsequently, this study employs bibliometric analysis to examine publication trends on digital-age plastic consumption in Social Sciences, Economics, and Business fields, highlighting integrated research themes through analysis of author and index keywords. The findings suggest that the growth in published documents and citations highlights the increasing academic recognition of research on plastic consumption in the digital era. Moreover, Blanco I., Schettini E., and Vox G. emerge as key contributors. The leading publishing outlets and most frequently cited sources are Sustainability (Switzerland), Resources, Conservation and Recycling, and the Journal of Cleaner Production. The integrated research themes derived from the author and index keywords indicate that research on plastic consumption starts with a foundational basis, progresses through tools and strategies, and culminates in outcomes and challenges. The findings suggest that policies on plastic consumption in the digital era should establish a solid knowledge foundation, utilise digital tools for sustainable strategies, and implement regulations that align digital transformation with environmental objectives.