Human resource management and sustainability: Bridging the 2030 agenda

Abstract

The scientific literature related to human resource management (HRM) and sustainability has increased since 2015, coinciding with the establishment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This article combines a bibliometric approach, using VOSviewer and SciMat software, with a systematic literature review to assess and identify the scientific production in this domain. During the period studied (1996–2023), the results reveal the role of HR in achieving corporate sustainability but also the responsibility of companies to apply sustainable principles to HRM practices. Based on the findings and the less developed issues related to the SDGs and HRM a model of research proposals is provided, focusing on mental health (SDG 3), gender equality (SDG 5), collaboration towards climate action and responsible production and consumption (SDGs 12 & 13), and more emphasis on SDG 1 regarding the social sustainability of organisations.