16

Environmental, social, and economic concerns are becoming more important in all areas of the supply chain throughout the world. Procurement is no exception; purchasing professionals must address sustainability concerns in order to remain competitive in markets where it has become crucial to respect the three pillars of the triple bottom line. This paper aims to draw up a systematic review of the literature on the theme of responsible sourcing (RS) through the exclusive use of three databases: Scopus, Web of Science, and Cairn. The research analyzes ninety-two papers on RS definitions, drivers and barriers, commercial impact, and the status quo in developing countries. The analysis leads to a new, more comprehensive definition, as well as establishing the five main catalysts and obstacles to RS. In addition, the paper covers the different approaches used to achieve sustainability in procurement. Catalysts for the adoption of RS are generally the result of an organizational desire to improve the perception of different stakeholders, or of institutional isomorphism. By contrast, most of the barriers to the successful implementation of RS result from a lack of knowledge or inadequate policy implementation. RS in developing countries is still in its infancy, with very few countries implementing policies in this direction, while the vast majority still perceive the subject as inessential to business operations. The study concludes by comparing the results of the literature to arrive at managerial and theoretical implications, as well as suggestions for future research.