The renewable energy sector is at the forefront of global efforts to mitigate climate change, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and promote sustainable development. As nations and industries pivot towards greener energy solutions, the demand for renewable energy technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems has surged. This increase in demand has placed unprecedented pressure on supply chains, leading to notable price inflation in recent years. Concurrently, there is a growing recognition of the importance of ethical sourcing practices in these supply chains, which are seen as pivotal not only in addressing price inflation but also in fostering social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Renewable energy supply chains are complex, spanning multiple regions and involving numerous stakeholders, from raw material extraction to manufacturing and distribution. The intricacies of these supply chains make them susceptible to various forms of disruption, including geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and market fluctuations. One of the significant challenges has been the inflationary pressures on key materials and components essential for renewable energy technologies. For instance, the prices of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements have seen substantial increases due to heightened demand and supply constraints (International Energy Agency, 2022). These minerals are vital for the production of batteries, electric vehicles, and other renewable technologies, and their price volatility can significantly impact the overall cost of renewable energy projects. Ethical sourcing practices have emerged as a potential solution to mitigate these inflationary pressures by ensuring that supply chains are not only economically efficient but also socially and environmentally responsible. Ethical sourcing encompasses a range of practices aimed at promoting human rights, environmental sustainability, and fair trade. It involves the procurement of materials and services in a manner that respects labor rights, minimizes environmental impact, and supports community development. By integrating ethical considerations into their sourcing strategies, companies can create more resilient and sustainable supply chains. One of the primary benefits of ethical sourcing is its potential to enhance supply chain transparency and traceability. In the renewable energy sector, transparency is crucial for ensuring that materials are sourced responsibly and that the social and environmental impacts of production are minimized. For example, the implementation of blockchain technology can enable companies to track the origins of raw materials and ensure compliance with ethical standards. This increased transparency can help mitigate the risk of supply chain disruptions caused by unethical practices such as child labor, forced labor, and environmental degradation. Moreover, it can build consumer trust and brand loyalty, which are increasingly important in a market where stakeholders are becoming more conscious of the ethical implications of their purchasing decisions (Fairphone, 2023). In addition to transparency, ethical sourcing practices can contribute to price stabilization by promoting fair trade and equitable economic practices. Fair trade initiatives ensure that producers and workers in developing countries receive fair compensation for their labor and products, thereby reducing the exploitation that often leads to price volatility. By establishing long-term, equitable relationships with suppliers, companies can secure more stable pricing and reduce the risk of sudden price hikes caused by exploitative practices. Furthermore, ethical sourcing can drive innovation and efficiency in supply chains by encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices that reduce waste and improve resource utilization (World Fair Trade Organization, 2023). Environmental sustainability is another critical aspect of ethical sourcing that can help address price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. The extraction and processing of raw materials for renewable energy technologies often have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Ethical sourcing practices aim to minimize these impacts by promoting the use of sustainable materials, reducing carbon footprints, and implementing circular economy principles. For instance, recycling and reusing materials can reduce the demand for virgin resources, thereby mitigating price inflation caused by supply constraints. Companies that adopt sustainable practices can also benefit from regulatory incentives and avoid penalties associated with environmental non-compliance, further stabilizing their cost structures (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2022). Moreover, ethical sourcing practices can enhance the social sustainability of renewable energy supply chains by improving working conditions and supporting community development. The renewable energy sector relies heavily on labor-intensive processes, particularly in the extraction and processing of raw materials. Unethical labor practices, such as low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of worker rights, can lead to labor disputes, strikes, and other disruptions that contribute to price inflation. By ensuring fair labor practices and investing in the well-being of workers and communities, companies can create more stable and productive supply chains. Additionally, supporting local communities through initiatives such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development can foster goodwill and social license to operate, further reducing the risk of disruptions (United Nations Global Compact, 2023). The adoption of ethical sourcing practices also aligns with the broader trend towards corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. Investors, consumers, and regulators are increasingly scrutinizing companies based on their social and environmental performance. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to ethical sourcing can enhance their reputations, attract socially conscious investors, and comply with evolving regulatory requirements. This alignment with CSR and ESG principles can provide a competitive advantage, as companies that are perceived as ethical and sustainable are more likely to gain market share and customer loyalty (S&P Global, 2023). However, the implementation of ethical sourcing practices is not without challenges. One of the primary obstacles is the additional cost associated with sourcing materials and services ethically. Ethical sourcing often requires investment in monitoring and verification systems, higher wages for workers, and adherence to stricter environmental standards. These costs can be significant, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources. Additionally, there can be resistance from suppliers who are accustomed to traditional practices and may be reluctant to adopt new, more ethical standards (Ethical Trade Initiative, 2022). Despite these challenges, the long-term benefits of ethical sourcing can outweigh the initial costs. By creating more resilient and sustainable supply chains, companies can reduce the risk of disruptions and price inflation, ultimately leading to more stable and predictable cost structures. Furthermore, the growing consumer demand for ethically sourced products suggests that companies that invest in ethical sourcing can achieve higher market valuations and profitability in the long run. As the renewable energy sector continues to expand, the importance of ethical sourcing practices in addressing price inflation and promoting sustainability will likely become even more pronounced (McKinsey & Company, 2023).

The literature on ethical sourcing practices in renewable energy supply chains is rich and varied, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the issues at hand. The renewable energy sector has been increasingly scrutinized for its supply chain practices due to the rapid growth in demand for renewable technologies, which has exacerbated the need for sustainable and ethical sourcing. Ethical sourcing in this context involves practices that ensure fairness, transparency, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility throughout the supply chain, from raw material extraction to final product distribution (Emon & Khan, 2023). A growing body of research highlights the economic, environmental, and social benefits of ethical sourcing practices. For instance, studies by Husted et al. (2023) and Lannelongue et al. (2023) emphasize that ethical sourcing can enhance supply chain resilience by reducing the risk of disruptions caused by unethical practices such as labor exploitation and environmental degradation. By fostering long-term relationships with suppliers and investing in community development, companies can secure more stable and predictable pricing for raw materials, thereby mitigating the impacts of price inflation. Ethical sourcing also aligns with the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, which are increasingly important to investors, consumers, and regulators. According to He and Harris (2022), companies that adopt CSR and ESG principles are more likely to gain market share and attract investment, as stakeholders are becoming more conscious of the ethical implications of their purchasing and investment decisions. This shift towards ethical consumerism is driving companies to integrate ethical sourcing practices into their supply chain management strategies. Research by Rajeev et al. (2022) and Jia et al. (2023) indicates that transparency and traceability are critical components of ethical sourcing. These practices enable companies to monitor and verify the origins of their raw materials, ensuring compliance with ethical standards. Blockchain technology, for instance, has been identified as a valuable tool for enhancing supply chain transparency and traceability (Saberi et al., 2022). By providing a secure and immutable record of transactions, blockchain can help companies ensure that their sourcing practices are ethical and sustainable, thereby reducing the risk of price inflation caused by supply chain disruptions. Fair trade initiatives are another important aspect of ethical sourcing. According to the World Fair Trade Organization (2023), fair trade practices ensure that producers and workers in developing countries receive fair compensation for their labor and products. This not only helps to reduce exploitation but also promotes economic stability and social development in these regions. By supporting fair trade, companies can contribute to more equitable and sustainable supply chains, which can help mitigate the impacts of price inflation. Environmental sustainability is a key consideration in ethical sourcing practices. The extraction and processing of raw materials for renewable energy technologies can have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Studies by Stegemann et al. (2023) and Yadav et al. (2023) highlight the importance of sustainable sourcing practices that minimize these impacts. For example, recycling and reusing materials can reduce the demand for virgin resources, thereby helping to stabilize prices. Companies that adopt environmentally sustainable practices can also benefit from regulatory incentives and avoid penalties associated with environmental non-compliance. Social sustainability is equally important in ethical sourcing. Research by Gold et al. (2022) and Marshall et al. (2023) emphasizes the need for fair labor practices and community development initiatives. Unethical labor practices, such as low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of worker rights, can lead to labor disputes and other disruptions that contribute to price inflation. By ensuring fair labor practices and investing in the well-being of workers and communities, companies can create more stable and productive supply chains (Emon et al., 2024). The role of entrepreneurship in ethical sourcing is also noteworthy (Emon & Nipa, 2024). Entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector are increasingly recognizing the importance of ethical sourcing as a competitive advantage (Khan et al., 2020). According to studies by York et al. (2023) and Shepherd et al. (2022), entrepreneurial ventures that prioritize ethical sourcing are more likely to attract socially conscious investors and customers. These ventures are also better positioned to innovate and adapt to changing market conditions, which can help them mitigate the impacts of price inflation. Emotional intelligence is another factor that can influence the effectiveness of ethical sourcing practices (Emon et al., 2024). Leaders with high emotional intelligence are better able to navigate the complexities of supply chain management and foster positive relationships with suppliers and stakeholders. Research by Goleman et al. (2022) and Boyatzis et al. (2023) suggests that emotionally intelligent leaders are more effective in promoting ethical behavior and sustainability within their organizations. By cultivating emotional intelligence, companies can enhance their ethical sourcing efforts and build more resilient supply chains. Sustainability, both environmental and social, is at the core of ethical sourcing practices. Sustainable sourcing involves the procurement of materials and services in a manner that minimizes environmental impact and promotes social equity. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (2022), adopting circular economy principles can help companies reduce waste and improve resource efficiency, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability. Social sustainability, on the other hand, involves ensuring that sourcing practices support the well-being of workers and communities. This can be achieved through fair labor practices, community development initiatives, and other measures that promote social equity. Despite the clear benefits of ethical sourcing, there are significant challenges to its implementation. One of the primary obstacles is the additional cost associated with ethical sourcing. Studies by Zhang et al. (2023) and Kumar et al. (2022) highlight the financial burden of implementing monitoring and verification systems, paying higher wages, and adhering to stricter environmental standards. These costs can be particularly challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources. Moreover, there can be resistance from suppliers who are accustomed to traditional practices and may be reluctant to adopt new, more ethical standards. To overcome these challenges, companies need to adopt a strategic approach to ethical sourcing. This involves integrating ethical considerations into their overall business strategy and supply chain management processes. Research by Porter and Kramer (2022) suggests that creating shared value—an approach that aligns business success with social progress—can help companies achieve both economic and ethical goals. By identifying opportunities to create shared value, companies can develop more sustainable and resilient supply chains that benefit all stakeholders. Furthermore, collaboration and partnerships are essential for the successful implementation of ethical sourcing practices. According to studies by Vurro et al. (2023) and Seuring et al. (2022), collaboration with suppliers, NGOs, and other stakeholders can help companies address the challenges of ethical sourcing. By working together, these stakeholders can develop and implement best practices, share knowledge and resources, and drive collective action towards more sustainable and ethical supply chains. Consumer education and awareness are also critical for promoting ethical sourcing. Research by Carrington et al. (2022) and Moraes et al. (2023) indicates that consumers are increasingly interested in the ethical implications of their purchasing decisions. However, there is often a gap between consumers' intentions and their actual behavior. By educating consumers about the importance of ethical sourcing and the impact of their choices, companies can encourage more ethical consumption patterns. This, in turn, can drive demand for ethically sourced products and incentivize companies to adopt ethical sourcing practices. Finally, regulatory frameworks and industry standards play a crucial role in promoting ethical sourcing. According to studies by Kolk and van Tulder (2023) and Baumann-Pauly et al. (2022), effective regulation can help ensure that companies adhere to ethical sourcing practices. This includes laws and regulations that promote fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and transparency in supply chains. Industry standards and certifications, such as Fair Trade and the Responsible Mineral Initiative, can also provide benchmarks for ethical sourcing and help companies demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices. In conclusion, the literature on ethical sourcing practices in renewable energy supply chains underscores the importance of these practices in addressing price inflation and promoting sustainability. Ethical sourcing can enhance supply chain resilience, reduce the risk of disruptions, and promote economic stability by fostering fair trade, transparency, and environmental and social sustainability. While there are challenges to the implementation of ethical sourcing, strategic approaches, collaboration, consumer education, and effective regulation can help overcome these obstacles. As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, the adoption of ethical sourcing practices will be essential for achieving both economic and sustainability goals. This body of research provides valuable insights for companies, policymakers, and stakeholders seeking to promote ethical and sustainable supply chains in the renewable energy sector.

The research methodology employed in this study focused on qualitative methods to explore the role of ethical sourcing practices in addressing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to gather insights from previous studies and establish a theoretical foundation for the research. The literature review encompassed peer-reviewed journal articles, industry reports, and relevant books published within the last five years to ensure the inclusion of the most recent and relevant information. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. These stakeholders included supply chain managers, procurement officers, sustainability experts, and representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in promoting ethical practices. The selection of interviewees was based on their expertise and experience in the field, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives. A purposive sampling technique was used to identify and recruit participants who could provide in-depth insights into the research topic. The interview guide was developed based on the themes identified in the literature review, focusing on the challenges and benefits of ethical sourcing, the impact of ethical practices on price stability, and the role of transparency and traceability in supply chain management. The interviews were conducted via video conferencing platforms to accommodate participants from different geographical locations and to ensure convenience and accessibility. Each interview lasted between 45 minutes to one hour and was recorded with the consent of the participants for accurate data transcription and analysis. Data analysis was carried out using thematic analysis, which involved coding the interview transcripts to identify recurring themes and patterns. The initial coding process was inductive, allowing themes to emerge naturally from the data. This was followed by a deductive coding process, where the identified themes were compared with the theoretical framework established in the literature review. This approach ensured that the findings were grounded in both the empirical data and existing theoretical constructs. To enhance the reliability and validity of the findings, triangulation was employed by cross-referencing the interview data with secondary data sources, including industry reports and case studies. This method helped to corroborate the findings and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the research topic. Additionally, member checking was conducted by sharing the preliminary findings with the interview participants to ensure that their perspectives were accurately represented and to obtain their feedback. Ethical considerations were strictly adhered to throughout the research process. Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the interviews, and they were assured of the confidentiality and anonymity of their responses. The study was conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines and received approval from the relevant institutional review board. The research methodology was designed to provide a robust and nuanced understanding of the role of ethical sourcing practices in mitigating price inflation within renewable energy supply chains. By combining a thorough literature review with qualitative data from key stakeholders, the study aimed to generate insights that are both theoretically informed and practically relevant.

The results of this study provide a detailed understanding of the role of ethical sourcing practices in addressing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. The qualitative data collected from interviews with key stakeholders revealed several significant themes and insights, which are discussed below. One of the primary findings is that ethical sourcing practices can significantly enhance supply chain transparency and traceability. Participants consistently emphasized the importance of knowing the origins of raw materials and ensuring compliance with ethical standards. This transparency is not only crucial for building consumer trust but also for mitigating risks associated with unethical practices such as child labor, forced labor, and environmental degradation. Interviewees highlighted that the implementation of technologies like blockchain has been instrumental in achieving higher levels of traceability. Blockchain technology, with its secure and immutable record-keeping, allows companies to track the entire journey of raw materials, thereby ensuring that they are sourced responsibly. This level of transparency has been shown to reduce the likelihood of disruptions caused by unethical practices, ultimately contributing to more stable pricing in the supply chain. Another significant finding is the role of fair trade initiatives in stabilizing prices. Several participants pointed out that fair trade practices ensure that producers and workers receive fair compensation, which helps to reduce exploitation and promote economic stability in sourcing regions. This economic stability, in turn, contributes to more predictable and stable pricing for raw materials. Companies that engage in fair trade practices reported experiencing fewer price fluctuations and supply chain disruptions. This is because fair trade relationships are typically long-term and built on mutual trust and respect, which helps to secure more reliable supply agreements. Additionally, fair trade premiums are often reinvested into community development projects, further stabilizing the local economy and reducing the risk of supply chain interruptions. Environmental sustainability emerged as a crucial aspect of ethical sourcing that impacts price stability. Interviewees noted that sustainable sourcing practices, such as using recycled materials and minimizing waste, can help mitigate price inflation by reducing the dependency on virgin resources. For instance, the adoption of circular economy principles, which emphasize the reuse and recycling of materials, has been shown to lower the demand for new raw materials. This reduction in demand can alleviate price pressures, especially for critical minerals essential for renewable energy technologies. Participants also mentioned that companies adopting sustainable practices are better positioned to comply with regulatory requirements and benefit from incentives, which can further stabilize costs. Social sustainability, particularly fair labor practices and community support, was highlighted as another key factor in ethical sourcing. Many participants stressed that ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for workers' rights are essential for maintaining a stable and productive workforce. Unethical labor practices can lead to labor disputes, strikes, and other disruptions that contribute to price inflation. By investing in the well-being of workers and supporting local communities, companies can foster a more stable labor environment. This stability not only reduces the risk of supply chain disruptions but also enhances productivity and efficiency, contributing to more predictable pricing. The role of entrepreneurship in promoting ethical sourcing was also evident from the interviews. Entrepreneurs and smaller firms in the renewable energy sector were found to be particularly innovative in integrating ethical sourcing practices. These ventures often prioritize ethical considerations as part of their core business strategy, recognizing that such practices can provide a competitive edge. Participants noted that entrepreneurial firms are more agile and can quickly adapt to changing market conditions, which helps them mitigate the impacts of price inflation. Additionally, these firms are often driven by a strong sense of purpose and commitment to sustainability, which resonates well with socially conscious investors and consumers. Emotional intelligence among leaders was identified as a critical factor in successfully implementing ethical sourcing practices. Interviewees underscored that leaders with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to handle the complexities of supply chain management and foster positive relationships with suppliers and stakeholders. These leaders are adept at navigating the challenges of ethical sourcing, such as negotiating fair trade agreements and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Their ability to build trust and communicate effectively with all stakeholders enhances the overall effectiveness of ethical sourcing initiatives, leading to more resilient and stable supply chains. Despite the clear benefits of ethical sourcing, the study also revealed several challenges. One of the main obstacles is the higher cost associated with implementing ethical practices. Participants acknowledged that sourcing materials ethically often involves additional expenses, such as paying higher wages, investing in monitoring and verification systems, and adhering to stricter environmental standards. These costs can be prohibitive for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited financial resources. Moreover, there can be resistance from suppliers who are accustomed to traditional practices and may be reluctant to adopt new, more ethical standards. However, the long-term benefits of ethical sourcing were highlighted as outweighing the initial costs. Participants noted that companies investing in ethical practices tend to achieve higher market valuations and profitability over time. This is due to the growing demand for ethically sourced products among consumers and the increasing emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria among investors. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to ethical sourcing can enhance their reputations, attract socially conscious investors, and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace. The study also found that collaboration and partnerships are essential for the successful implementation of ethical sourcing practices. Participants emphasized the importance of working together with suppliers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to address the challenges of ethical sourcing. Collaborative efforts can help develop and implement best practices, share knowledge and resources, and drive collective action towards more sustainable and ethical supply chains. For example, industry-wide initiatives and certifications, such as the Responsible Mineral Initiative and Fair Trade certifications, provide valuable frameworks for companies to follow and ensure compliance with ethical standards. Consumer education and awareness were identified as critical for promoting ethical sourcing. Interviewees highlighted that consumers are increasingly interested in the ethical implications of their purchasing decisions, but there is often a gap between their intentions and actual behavior. By educating consumers about the importance of ethical sourcing and the impact of their choices, companies can encourage more ethical consumption patterns. This, in turn, can drive demand for ethically sourced products and incentivize companies to adopt ethical sourcing practices. Regulatory frameworks and industry standards were also noted as crucial for promoting ethical sourcing. Effective regulation can help ensure that companies adhere to ethical practices by setting clear standards and enforcing compliance. Participants mentioned that laws and regulations promoting fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and transparency in supply chains are essential for creating a level playing field and encouraging ethical behavior. Industry standards and certifications provide benchmarks for ethical sourcing and help companies demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices to consumers and investors.

The discussion of the findings from this study highlights the significance of ethical sourcing practices in addressing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. Ethical sourcing plays a multifaceted role in ensuring the sustainability and resilience of supply chains, with implications for economic stability, environmental protection, social equity, and corporate reputation. Ethical sourcing practices contribute to supply chain transparency and traceability, enabling companies to monitor and verify the origins of raw materials and ensure compliance with ethical standards. By leveraging technologies like blockchain, companies can track the journey of materials from extraction to production, reducing the risk of disruptions caused by unethical practices such as child labor, forced labor, and environmental degradation. The transparency afforded by ethical sourcing enhances consumer trust and brand reputation, which can lead to increased market share and customer loyalty (Rahman et al., 2024). Fair trade initiatives play a crucial role in promoting economic stability and reducing price volatility in renewable energy supply chains. By ensuring that producers and workers receive fair compensation for their labor and products, fair trade practices help to alleviate exploitation and foster long-term relationships between buyers and suppliers. These relationships are built on mutual trust and respect, leading to more reliable and predictable pricing for raw materials. Additionally, fair trade premiums are often reinvested into community development projects, further stabilizing the local economy and reducing the risk of supply chain interruptions. Environmental sustainability is a key consideration in ethical sourcing practices, with implications for both price stability and long-term viability. Sustainable sourcing practices, such as using recycled materials and minimizing waste, can help mitigate price inflation by reducing the demand for virgin resources. Companies that adopt sustainable practices are better positioned to comply with regulatory requirements and benefit from incentives, further stabilizing costs and reducing environmental impact. Moreover, sustainable sourcing aligns with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products, driving demand and enhancing market competitiveness. Social sustainability is equally important in ethical sourcing, as fair labor practices and community support are essential for maintaining a stable and productive workforce. Companies that invest in the well-being of workers and support local communities are less likely to experience labor disputes and disruptions, contributing to more predictable pricing and supply chain resilience. Moreover, socially responsible companies are better positioned to attract and retain top talent, enhancing productivity and innovation. The role of entrepreneurship in promoting ethical sourcing practices highlights the importance of innovation and agility in addressing price inflation and supply chain challenges. Entrepreneurs and smaller firms are often at the forefront of adopting ethical practices, recognizing the competitive advantage and market opportunities associated with sustainability and social responsibility. These ventures are more agile and adaptive to changing market conditions, enabling them to navigate price volatility and supply chain disruptions more effectively. Emotional intelligence among leaders emerges as a critical factor in the successful implementation of ethical sourcing practices. Leaders with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to build trust and foster positive relationships with suppliers and stakeholders, enhancing the effectiveness of ethical sourcing initiatives. Their ability to communicate effectively and navigate complex ethical dilemmas contributes to more resilient and sustainable supply chains. Despite the benefits of ethical sourcing, challenges remain, particularly regarding the higher costs associated with implementation and resistance from suppliers. However, the long-term benefits of ethical sourcing, including enhanced brand reputation, consumer trust, and market competitiveness, outweigh the initial costs. Collaboration, consumer education, and effective regulation are essential for overcoming these challenges and promoting ethical sourcing practices across the renewable energy sector.

This study has provided valuable insights into the role of ethical sourcing practices in addressing price inflation in renewable energy supply chains. The findings highlight the multifaceted benefits of ethical sourcing, including enhanced supply chain transparency, economic stability, environmental protection, social equity, and corporate reputation. Ethical sourcing practices contribute to supply chain resilience by reducing the risk of disruptions caused by unethical practices and promoting long-term relationships between buyers and suppliers. Fair trade initiatives play a crucial role in promoting economic stability and reducing price volatility, while sustainable sourcing practices help mitigate price inflation by reducing the demand for virgin resources and aligning with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. Socially responsible companies that invest in the well-being of workers and support local communities are better positioned to maintain a stable and productive workforce, contributing to more predictable pricing and supply chain resilience. Moreover, entrepreneurship and emotional intelligence among leaders are critical factors in driving the adoption and successful implementation of ethical sourcing practices. Despite the challenges associated with implementation, the long-term benefits of ethical sourcing outweigh the initial costs and contribute to enhanced brand reputation, consumer trust, and market competitiveness. Collaboration, consumer education, and effective regulation are essential for overcoming these challenges and promoting ethical sourcing practices across the renewable energy sector. Overall, the integration of ethical considerations into supply chain management is essential for achieving both economic and sustainability goals in the renewable energy industry.