Knowledge-based supply chains (KBSC) focus on cutting-edge technologies of industry 4.0 and are highly focused on knowledge and human-centric skills. On this account, their prominent role in the context of knowledge economies is undoubtedly confirmed. On the other hand, many scholars and activists have considered the sustainability triple bottom line (TBL) theory as the fundamental pillar of development, including the economy, environment, and society. As a result, the main purpose of this study is to demonstrate the role of sustainable supply chain drivers (SSCDs) in achieving a knowledge-based economy. To this aim, after extraction of the main features of the knowledge-based economy (KBE) and sustainable supply chain drivers from relevant literature, a new method based on an efficient mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model is developed to relax the computational complexity of the classical QUALIFLEX (QUALItative FLEXible multiple criteria method) in dealing with the problem with more alternatives. The results presented that among identified features of KBE, the literacy rate, life-long training, learning, and technical publications per capita are essential features. Furthermore, long-term orientation, globalization process, and professional associations are the most crucial supply chain sustainability drivers. These findings can empower organizations to prepare for moving toward sustainability in a knowledge-based economy environment.

知识型供应链（KBSC）关注工业4.0的前沿技术，高度关注知识和以人为中心的技能。因此，它们在知识经济背景下的突出作用无疑得到证实。另一方面，许多学者和活动家将可持续发展三重底线（TBL）理论视为发展的根本支柱，包括经济、环境和社会。因此，本研究的主要目的是展示可持续供应链驱动因素（SSCD）在实现知识经济中的作用。为此，在从相关文献中提取知识经济（KBE）的主要特征和可持续供应链驱动因素后，提出了一种基于高效混合整数线性规划（MILP）模型的新方法，以减轻经典QUALIFLEX（QUALItative FLEXible多准则方法）在处理具有更多替代方案的问题时的计算复杂度。结果表明，在KBE的已识别特征中，识字率、终身培训、学习和人均技术出版物是重要特征。此外，长期导向、全球化进程和专业协会是最重要的供应链可持续发展驱动力。这些发现可以使组织为在知识经济环境中迈向可持续发展做好准备。