Future Studies of the Oil and Gas Industry: Understanding the Dilemmas of Innovation Management, Governance, and Sustainability

Abstract

Purpose: The study was to systematically analyze the scientific production over the last decade (2010-2021) in terms of future studies about the oil and gas (O&G) industry.   Theoretical Framework: The future of the O&G industry has become the ground for research with various methods to study the finite life of this resource, global climate change, the prospect of low-carbon economies, and the transition of energy to renewable sources.   Method: This systematic literature review analyzed scientific production in the last decade about the future of the O&G industry, indicating new perspectives for the field, identifying all the primary research relevant to an issue, and allowing for critical assessment and synthesis of results.   Findings: There is an increase in the number of publications on the subject, emphasizing topics such as innovation management and energy consumption. There was a predominance of empirical studies that employed forecasting methods; however, foresight was used for topics such as governance and strategy.   Research Implications: Contributing to a synthesis of scientific publications, although the list is not exhaustive, nevertheless provides a starting point for advancing research into the future of the industry.   Originality/value: Various contributions and innovation proposals for organizations were identified. This study provides a structured scientific basis for future oil and gas industry studies.