Resource Conservation in Industrial Enterprises: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Industrial enterprises contribute significantly to global resource consumption and environmental degradation, accounting for nearly 30% of energy use and 24% of greenhouse gas emissions. As environmental regulations tighten and sustainability imperatives grow, industries are under pressure to adopt effective resource conservation strategies encompassing energy, water, material, and waste optimization. While many studies explore individual conservation initiatives, there is a lack of comprehensive, cross-sectoral analysis of integrated implementation methodologies and their effectiveness across different industrial contexts. This study conducts a systematic literature review of resource conservation strategies implemented in industrial enterprises between 2000 and 2021, identifying key approaches, barriers, success factors, and quantitative outcomes. The analysis reveals that integrated conservation systems offer 30–50% greater efficiency gains than isolated measures. Small and medium-sized enterprises, although facing more significant barriers, often achieve higher percentage improvements when supported appropriately. Organizational commitment, strategic integration, and cross-sector knowledge transfer emerge as critical success factors. The review introduces a three-level analytical framework (technological, organizational, strategic) and synthesizes empirical evidence to highlight patterns and gaps in conservation efforts. Findings inform policymakers and practitioners by emphasizing the need for targeted support to SMEs, integrated resource management, and inclusion of organizational strategies alongside technological solutions to drive industrial sustainability.