## 5 Blockchain-Based Supply Chain Security Solutions and Integration Models
### Data Privacy with Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) and Confidential Transactions
#### 5.3.2 Architectural Model for Cross-Chain Supply Chains and Smart Contract Design
Emerging technologies, such as quantum computing, edge computing, and the IoE, are deeply reshaping the operational and architectural foundations of blockchain-enabled supply chains. Quantum computing introduces computational capabilities that challenge traditional cryptographic assumptions. In supply chains where blockchain ensures immutable transaction records and identity authentication, the emergence of quantum attacks calls for post-quantum cryptography to maintain long-term security guarantees [89; 90]. Edge computing, by shifting data processing closer to the data source, complements blockchain's decentralized ethos. In latency-sensitive environments, like cold-chain logistics or just-in-time manufacturing, edge computing enhances traceability by enabling faster, localized decision-making and reducing reliance on centralized servers [48; 49]. The IoE, encompassing not just devices, as in the traditional IoT, but also people, processes, and contextual intelligence, amplifies the scale and complexity of data exchanged across supply chain layers. While this fosters hyper-connectivity and visibility, it simultaneously creates new vulnerabilities. Blockchain offers promising foundations for managing trust, ensuring data provenance, and coordinating actions in such heterogeneous, data-rich environments [9; 10; 49]. These trends highlight a key insight that the evolving systemic demands are not just about integrating more technologies but about aligning them with scalable, secure, and interoperable supply chain solutions. Future research must focus on hybrid frameworks that combine blockchain with edge-native consensus protocols, quantum-resistant cryptographic schemes, and data governance models capable of adapting to the high-velocity and high-variety nature of IoE-driven systems. As these technologies continue to mature, their intersection with blockchain introduces both opportunities and challenges in achieving secure, transparent, and trustworthy supply chains. Figure 9 illustrates how emerging technologies, such as quantum computing, edge computing, and the IoE, impact the three core dimensions of security, traceability, and data integrity, highlighting both their benefits and the associated challenges. ### Scalability and Sustainability Trade-Offs in Blockchain-Based SCM

Based on the previous analyses, this subsection outlines emerging research opportunities and unresolved challenges that merit further exploration. While the use of blockchain technology in supply chains offers significant advantages in terms of security, traceability, and data integrity, it also entails certain limitations, particularly concerning scalability and sustainability in large-scale systems. For instance, PoW-based systems involve high energy consumption and long transaction confirmation times, which pose substantial challenges for SCM scenarios that demand real-time data synchronization and high transaction throughputs. In contrast, alternative consensus algorithms, such as PoS and PBFT, are more advantageous in terms of energy efficiency; however, they introduce different limitations related to security and decentralization. A comparative analysis of different consensus mechanisms in terms of transaction speed, energy consumption, and their suitability in SCM contexts is presented in Table 17.

In this context, permissioned blockchain platforms (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric) offer more suitable solutions in terms of both energy efficiency and transaction speed. When selecting the appropriate system architecture, operational sustainability criteria, such as energy and processing costs, should be considered alongside the balance between security and privacy. In addition to consensus-related trade-offs, broader system-level cost drivers also shape the feasibility of blockchain adoption in SCM. Table 18 summarizes the key technical factors that influence the setup and operational costs of blockchain-based supply chain systems.