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Sustainable Logistics in the New Era

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A special issue of Logistics (ISSN 2305-6290).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2024) | Viewed by 48824

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Special Issue Editor

Dr. Hao Yu

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Guest Editor

Department of Industrial Engineering, UiT—The Arctic University of Norway, 8514 Narvik, Norway
Interests: reverse logistics; sustainable logistics; optimization; simulation; smart logistics in Industry 4.0/5.0; digital logistics twin
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the increasing focus on sustainable development and circular economy, sustainable logistics has received extensive focus from both academia and practitioners across the globe. This trend has required companies not only to enhance their economic competitiveness but also to focus on the environmental performance and the social responsibility of their logistics activities. Over the years, the development and implementation of new ideas, technologies, models, and methods has significantly contributed to the sustainable practices of a wide variety of logistics operations and activities. However, research efforts are still needed to address the emerging challenges in the new era and to fully explore the potentials of cutting-edge technologies and methods in a sustainable logistics system.

Today, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant challenges and may further alter the structure of global supply chains. The border closure, city lockdown, and reduced transport capacities have drastically hindered the flows of goods, increased logistics costs, and imposed a higher risk on vulnerable groups related to the shortage of medical supplies, foods, as well as other necessities. This requires a rethinking of the UN’s sustainable development goals and consequently affects the means of sustainable logistics. In the post-pandemic age, compared with today’s research, more efforts may be spent on the economic and social dimensions of sustainable logistics in order to tackle these emerging challenges and to better contribute to the recovery of the world’s economy and societies. On the other hand, the rapid technological advancement in Industry 4.0 has provided new opportunities to improve the sustainability of traditional logistics systems, by which the emerging challenges may be better tackled.

Therefore, this Special Issue aims at providing a platform for discussing the emerging challenges of sustainable logistics in the new era and for presenting innovative solutions with cutting-edge technologies and methods. This Special Issue welcomes submissions of original research articles, review papers, case studies, communications, and perspective papers.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in Sustainability.

Dr. Hao Yu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Logistics is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

emerging challenges of sustainable logistics
innovative solutions of sustainable logistics
new technologies and sustainable logistics
sustainable supply chain management
sustainable logistics models
sustainable logistics practices
sustainable purchasing
sustainable distribution
green logistics
reverse logistics
closed-loop supply chain

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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28 pages, 1362 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Risky Riding Behaviors Among Food Delivery Motorcyclists in Thailand: Insights from the Motorcycle Rider Behavior Questionnaire and Health Belief Model

by Wimon Laphrom, Thanapong Champahom, Chamroeun Se, Supanida Nanthawong, Panuwat Wisutwattanasak, Vatanavongs Ratanavaraha and Sajjakaj Jomnonkwao

Logistics 2024, 8(4), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8040125 - 3 Dec 2024

Viewed by 602

Abstract

Background: Food delivery motorcyclists face unique risks that often lead to risky riding behaviors. Thailand, with one of the highest rates of motorcycle-related injuries and fatalities globally, has seen a surge in food delivery services following the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing the number of motorcyclists on the roads. Delivery motorcyclists are especially vulnerable due to frequent exposure to traffic congestion, time pressures, and adverse weather. This study aims to identify key health beliefs and external factors contributing to risky riding behaviors among food delivery motorcyclists in Thailand. Methods: The study surveyed 2000 food delivery motorcyclists across five regions in Thailand, employing the Motorcycle Rider Behavior Questionnaire and the Health Belief Model. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the relationships between health beliefs and risky riding behaviors. Results: The analysis revealed that health motivation, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, and cues to action were negatively associated with risky riding behaviors. Conversely, perceived barriers positively influenced these behaviors. Fatigue and aggressive riding were significant predictors of increased risky behaviors at the 0.001 level. Conclusions: Addressing individual health beliefs and external factors like fatigue and aggression is essential for reducing risky riding behaviors and preventing severe injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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13 pages, 848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Environmental Performance Make Any Difference in the Relationship between Green Supply Chain Management and Hotel Competitiveness?

by Abdulaziz Aljoghaiman, Ahmed M. Hasanein, Ibrahim A. Elshaer and Abu Elnasr E. Sobaih

Logistics 2024, 8(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030070 - 11 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1179

Abstract

Background: This research examines the direct influence of green supply chain management (GSCM) on hotel competitiveness and the indirect impact through environmental performance (EP). The competition between enterprises in today’s changing marketplace has significantly heightened. Therefore, identifying the factors that contribute to an enterprises’ competitiveness has become more essential than it was previously. Methods: We adopted a pre-tested scale drawn from previous related studies and we were able to collect 430 forms from managers and department heads in Saudi Arabian hotels. Results: The study findings of the structural model by PLS-SEM revealed that environmental and economic GSCM had a considerable beneficial influence on hotel competitiveness. However, the social aspect of GSCM failed to have an extensive effect on hotel competitiveness. All three dimensions of GSCM have a substantial indirect influence on hotel competitiveness via EP. Conclusion: The study developed a complete model that integrates the elements of GSCM with EP and hotel competitiveness. The study presents numerous implications for hoteliers and academics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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17 pages, 1462 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Model of Supply Chain Waste Reduction and Control Strategies for Retailers—The USA Retail Industry

by Victory Ikpe and Mohammad Shamsuddoha

Logistics 2024, 8(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010022 - 21 Feb 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7156

Abstract

Background: The US retail sector grapples with persistent challenges related to supply chain waste, including inefficiencies, overstocking, and logistical barriers, necessitating targeted reduction strategies to mitigate escalating costs, environmental impacts, and diminished profitability. Methods: This study adopts a qualitative research method that draws on secondary data sources such as books, journals, articles, and websites to explore supply chain waste reduction strategies within the US retail industry. The study delineates various supply chain waste types, examines associated challenges and drivers, and proposes a simplified model tailored to the US retail landscape to enhance efficiency and sustainability through waste reduction and control. Results: The findings of this paper underscore the necessity for proactive measures within the US retail sector to minimize supply chain waste, optimize operations, and bolster environmental stewardship. Conclusions: By offering a comprehensive overview actionable insights and proposed reverse logistics model, this study aims to equip US retailers with strategies conducive to sustainable growth and heightened competitiveness while advancing the broader discourse on supply chain efficiency and waste reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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25 pages, 1393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Key Factors Shaping Green Logistics in Thailand’s Auto Industry: An Application of Structural Equation Modeling

by Wuttichai Youngswaing, Sajjakaj Jomnonkwao, Ekkapong Cheunkamon and Vatanavongs Ratanavaraha

Logistics 2024, 8(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010017 - 8 Feb 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2642

Abstract

Background: Environmental responsibility is a critical focus in business and production. International partners have urged Thai businesses to adhere to global standards in environmental and social accountability. Green logistics management focuses on minimizing costs and boosting competitive efficiency in the industrial sector, while also promoting environmental protection. This study investigates the factors influencing green logistics in the motor vehicle industry. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection from 1638 participants. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were employed to identify causal links impacting green logistics effectiveness. Results: Findings indicate that government and organizational environmental policies, a company’s financial ability to implement green initiatives, commitment to eco-friendly investment, and public environmental attitudes significantly and directly affect the efficiency of green logistics. Conclusions: This research provides valuable insights for car manufacturers into key factors in green logistics management. These insights can help in developing strategic plans to achieve environmental sustainability in the context of future market competition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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15 pages, 479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Parcel Delivery Service on Customer Satisfaction in the Saudi Arabian Logistics Industry: Does the National Culture Make a Difference?

by Abu Elnasr E. Sobaih and Ahmed AlSaif

Logistics 2023, 7(4), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040094 - 6 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4714

Abstract

Background: The logistics industry is keen to meet customer expectations, which in turn supports trade by enhancing business competitiveness and promoting economic development. Logistics companies realized that fulfillment of customer needs has a significant effect on their business survival, their sales and ultimately their profits. This research analyzes the variables that influence customer satisfaction with parcel delivery services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), particularly the SERVQUAL dimensions: tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. The research also examined whether national culture affects customer perceptions of parcel delivery services in KSA or not. Methods: The research collected data using a self-administered survey, which was directed at a sample of customers in the KSA, who had recent experience with parcel delivery services. Results: The results of statistical analysis showed that the best predicators of customer satisfaction are reliability, followed by the dimensions of empathy, then tangibility and finally responsiveness. In addition, the results showed significant differences in customers’ overall satisfaction between Saudis and non-Saudis. Saudis were more satisfied with the service than non-Saudis were. Conclusions: This research showed the key role of national culture in perceiving parcel delivery service quality in KSA. The findings provide important messages to the administrators of the logistics services in KSA, which have become crucial for the Saudi Vision 2030. They need to customize their service according to customer needs and provide regular training for their staff to be supportive, reliable and have the credibility to deliver services as promised. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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32 pages, 2503 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do We Perform Systematic Literature Review Right? A Scientific Mapping and Methodological Assessment

by Mathew Azarian, Hao Yu, Asmamaw Tadege Shiferaw and Tor Kristian Stevik

Logistics 2023, 7(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040089 - 27 Nov 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5705

Abstract

Background: Systematic literature review (SLR) is increasingly utilized to maximize the element of rigor and minimize the individual bias of research synthesis. An analysis of the Web of Science (WoS) database indicates that 90% of the literature review studies using SLR have been published between 2012 and 2022. However, this progressive agenda is impaired by the lack of methodological consistency and rigorousness. To fill this gap, this paper aims at mapping the theoretical comprehension and practices of SLR and providing a stepwise approach to employing such a framework. Methods: A comprehensive narrative review is used in this paper to analyze the studies concerning the literature review typology and the structural assessment of the SLR. Furthermore, the methodological approach of the literature review studies that adopted the SLR and were published in the Logistics journal is assessed across a set of vital criteria associated with conducting an SLR. Results: There is a concrete link between the purpose of a review, i.e., to describe, test, extend, or critique, and the literature review type. There are 17 distinct literature review types, e.g., a narrative review, a bibliometric analysis, etc., which must be justified meticulously regardless of the SLR. The ambiguity in conceiving the SLR either as a toolkit or a review type, the lack of justification regarding the review purpose and type, and vague conceptual distinguishment between the bibliometric analysis, as a distinct review type, and the SLR framework, are only a few of the shortcomings observed in the analyzed papers. Conclusions: Given the significant role of SLR in elevating the element of rigor within the literature review studies, it is deemed essential to employ this framework by paying attention to two holistic factors: (1) theoretical distinction between the literature review purpose, the literature review type, and the SLR; (2) strict adherence to the SLR procedure with a high degree of accuracy and explicitness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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21 pages, 5596 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determining Factors for Supply Chain Services Provider Selection and Long-Term Relationship Maintenance: Evidence from Greece

by Damianos P. Sakas, Nikolaos T. Giannakopoulos, Nikos Kanellos, Christos Christopoulos and Kanellos S. Toudas

Logistics 2023, 7(4), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040073 - 9 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2845

Abstract

Background: Due to increased globalization and its subsequent rise in competitiveness, the role of supply chain services (3PL) in managing logistics, reducing operational and non-operational costs, and managing customer and supplier relationships, have become of utmost importance. Customer-centric production has led to the development of a close relationship between production processes. Amidst all this, the demand for logistic services has dramatically increased, thus putting more pressure on firms for enhanced operational results, and leading to the outsourcing of their internal and external logistic activities. On the other hand, supply chain firms that provide 3PL services seek to enhance their sustainability and predict their customers’ demand. Methods: The authors collected quantitative data from 81 firms that operate in various industrial sectors in Greece. A questionnaire was sent for completion, in which firms could rate and evaluate various aspects that were discerned as important for deciding to cooperate with a 3PL service provider and maintain this cooperation in the long run. To extract the required outcomes, statistical analyses like categorical regression (CATREG) and MANOVA were utilized. Results: The demand for 3PL services was affected by 3PL service providers’ operational performance based on accuracy, reputation, and IT capabilities, while the customer firms’ intention for maintaining cooperation with 3PL service providers was affected by their reliability level, improved service efficiency, and trustworthiness. Conclusions: 3PL service providers should seek to improve the reputation, IT infrastructure, and accuracy of their firm's operations to have a continuous demand for their services. Apart from that, 3PL service providers to maintain the cooperation with their customers, need to enhance the levels of their services reliability and efficiency, while also creating a bond of trust with their existing customers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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17 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Supply Chain Management: The Effect of Procurement Sustainability on Reverse Logistics

by Nataliia Letunovska, Felix Amoako Offei, Prince Amoh Junior, Oleksii Lyulyov, Tetyana Pimonenko and Aleksy Kwilinski

Logistics 2023, 7(3), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7030047 - 3 Aug 2023

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 9162

Abstract

Background: Sustainable procurement is about considering social and environmental factors alongside financial factors in making procurement decisions and purchasing goods and services that take into account the social, economic, and environmental impact that such purchasing has on people and communities. This study was carried out to address the effects of procurement sustainability on reverse logistics. It considered four objectives: to establish the relationship between environmental procurement sustainability and reverse logistics, to examine the relationship between economic procurement sustainability and reverse logistics, to examine the relationship between social sustainability procurement and reverse logistics, and to examine the moderating role of government policy. Methods: This study applied structural equation modeling to check the research hypotheses. A purposive sampling technique was used. A structured questionnaire was used to gather primary data. The data gathered were analyzed using descriptive and inferential analysis. The data were analyzed in SPSS version 21. The study found that environmental, economic, and social procurement sustainability has a significant and positive effect on reverse logistics. Government policy moderates the relationships between environmental, economic, and social procurement sustainability and reverse logistics. Conclusions: This study recommends that organizations team up with environmental protection agencies to produce environmentally friendly products. Social interventions that can help protect society from damage should be acknowledged. Good economic policies that ensure that organizations increase their wealth should also be acknowledged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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18 pages, 1350 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Production Inventory Optimization Considering Direct and Indirect Carbon Emissions under a Cap-and-Trade Regulation

by Yosef Daryanto and Djoko Setyanto

Logistics 2023, 7(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7010016 - 14 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2441

Abstract

Background: The latest global agreement on net-zero emissions encourages new studies on production inventory optimization that promote carbon emissions reduction without harming a company’s profit performance, particularly because certain carbon-pricing regulations bind manufacturing companies. Methods: This study aims to develop a production inventory model that considers direct and indirect emissions in three emission scopes. It incorporates emissions from production, material handling, transportation, and waste disposal for further treatment under a carbon cap-and-trade regulation. With the help of Maple software, a convex total cost function was solved. Results: The results show that the optimum production quantity depends on the values of demand, setup cost, holding cost, fixed cost per delivery, fixed cost for waste disposal, and other parameters related to carbon prices. This study also found that the total cost was highly dependent on the values of the carbon cap, carbon price, and delivery distance. Meanwhile, changes in the delivery distance and fuel emissions standard significantly impacted total emissions. Conclusions: The proposed model can guide manufacturing companies in setting the optimum production quantity per cycle. Moreover, they must carefully manage the delivery and setting of the carbon cap and carbon price from the government. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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Review

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21 pages, 1651 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the Route for a Circular Economy: An Integrative Literature Review

by Jorge Alfredo Cerqueira-Streit, Gustavo Yuho Endo, Patricia Guarnieri and Luciano Batista

Logistics 2021, 5(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics5040081 - 17 Nov 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 9735

Abstract

Background: Sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) considers social, environmental, and economic dimensions of sustainability. In the context of the pandemic, organizations must face consequences striking the wider dimensions of sustainability. Thus, after the COVID-19 pandemic, how will the value chains collaborate for the transition from a traditional (linear) to a Circular Economy? Methods: From this question, in this paper, we analyze the international papers that connect sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) with circular economy (CE). We conducted an Integrative Literature Review based on the Web of Science and Scopus databases from 2010 to 2020, using the Methodi Ordinatio protocol to classify the papers. Results: The 37 best-ranked papers were analyzed thoroughly. The results show the prominent authors, institutions, the network relationship between authors, the evolution of publications, and the leading journals. The content of these articles was categorized and discussed about the changes in the way products are manufactured, distributed, consumed, and recovered. The integration of CE principles in SSCM has been evaluated as having potential utility for industries, cities, and businesses in general. Conclusions: Finally, an agenda was identified with suggestions for further research, which can aid researchers and practitioners acting in this field. Managers can obtain insights to improve supply chain sustainability and consequently respond to the challenges imposed by the current pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)

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