Mapping the evolution of social life cycle assessment: a bibliometric and text-based SDG analysis (2010–2025)

Purpose Social life cycle assessment (S-LCA) has developed as a key methodology for evaluating social impacts across the product life cycle. However, existing bibliometric reviews remain limited in temporal coverage and analytical scope. This study aims to provide a broad, up-to-date analysis of S-LCA research from 2010 to 2025. Design/methodology/approach A TITLE-ABS-KEY search in Scopus identified 1,008 English-language publications covering 2010–2025. Microsoft Excel and Python were used for descriptive analysis and visualisation. VOSviewer was used to map co-authorship and keyword co-occurrence networks, and the text2sdg R package was used to analyse textual alignment with the SDGs based on publication titles and abstracts. Findings S-LCA research showed a marked increase in recent years, with research activity concentrated in Europe. Four thematic clusters were identified: core S-LCA and LCA methodology; sustainability integration and decision-making; supply chains and social risk assessment; and circular economy and energy applications. The text-based SDG analysis indicated the strongest textual alignment with SDG 12, followed by SDGs 7 and 8. However, several socially relevant goals remained less visible. Originality/value This study extends previous reviews through updated coverage to 2025 and a broader analytical framework integrating temporal, geographical, collaborative, thematic, methodological and SDG-related dimensions. It applies a population-normalised country analysis and examines the textual alignment of S-LCA publications with the SDGs. It also identifies areas in which S-LCA research and applications can be strengthened across research, policy, society and practice in engineering, design and technology.