Integrating Sustainability in Project Management: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The escalating global challenges of climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality necessitate the integration of sustainability into all aspects of life, including project management. This research is of paramount importance as it addresses the critical need for a structured approach to embed sustainability principles into project management, a domain integral to the successful execution of initiatives across various sectors. This Systematic Literature Review (SLR) from 2015 to 2023 evaluates the incorporation of sustainability principles into project management, addressing its challenges, enablers, and impacts on project outcomes. The scope of this review is particularly relevant as it coincides with the period following the introduction of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a time when the trend in research intersecting project management and sustainability witnessed a significant increase. The research aims to provide a comprehensive framework applicable across sectors, guiding practitioners to successfully integrate sustainability principles in project management. While the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework is widely recognised and applied, its practical implementation faces challenges such as shifting stakeholder expectations and an imbalanced focus on sustainability dimensions. The review critically evaluates the Sustainable Project Management Maturity Model (SPM3), a practical tool aiding project managers in integrating sustainability based on TBL. The research identifies three critical dimensions with respective challenges and enablers: 1) Awareness and Understanding of Sustainability, challenged by limited knowledge transfer, particularly in developing countries, but enabled by enhanced education and open, flexible joint processes. 2) Stakeholder Engagement and Communication, hindered by limited interest and subjectivities but facilitated by agile project management and active participation. 3) Economic Considerations and Project Management Constraints, facing conflicts between initial costs, perceived financial burdens, and traditional project constraints versus sustainability goals; however, refining project constraints and incorporating sustainability in decision-making at the portfolio level can enable integration. To address these findings, a conceptual framework emphasising these three essential dimensions and their interrelationships is proposed, leading to the successful integration of sustainability in project management. This holistic framework aims to guide the incorporation of sustainability principles into project management practices. Additionally, the research reveals a strong positive relationship between sustainability and project success across various studies, underscoring the value of sustainable practices. This research offers valuable insights with significant theoretical, practical, and policy implications by highlighting the complexities, challenges, and potential solutions for integrating sustainability into project management, ultimately guiding future research and practice in this critical area.