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43 pages, 11647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Demographic Variables on the Pooled Rideshare Acceptance Model Multigroup Analyses (PRAMMA)

by Rakesh Gangadharaiah, Johnell O. Brooks, Patrick J. Rosopa, Lisa Boor, Kristin Kolodge, Joseph Paul, Haotian Su and Yunyi Jia

Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 4196; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17094196 - 6 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 126

Abstract

Building on our prior research with a national survey sample of 5385 US participants, the Pooled Rideshare Acceptance Model (PRAM) was built upon two factor analyses. This exploratory study extends the PRAM framework using the Pooled Rideshare Acceptance Model Multigroup Analyses (PRAMMA) to [...] Read more.

Building on our prior research with a national survey sample of 5385 US participants, the Pooled Rideshare Acceptance Model (PRAM) was built upon two factor analyses. This exploratory study extends the PRAM framework using the Pooled Rideshare Acceptance Model Multigroup Analyses (PRAMMA) to examine how 16 demographic variables influence and interact with the acceptance of Pooled Rideshare (PR), filling a gap in understanding user segmentation and personalization. Using a national sample of 5385 US participants, this methodological approach allowed for the evaluation of how PRAM variables such as safety, privacy, service experience, and environmental impact vary across diverse groups, including gender, generation, driver’s license, rideshare experience, education level, employment status, household size, number of children, income, vehicle ownership, and typical commuting practices. Factors such as convenience, comfort, and passenger safety did not show significant differences across the moderators, suggesting their universal importance across all demographics. Furthermore, geographical differences did not significantly impact the relationships within the model, suggesting consistent relationships across different regions. The findings highlight the need to move beyond a “one size fits all” approach, demonstrating that tailored strategies may be crucial for enhancing the adoption and satisfaction of PR services among various demographic groups. The analyses provide valuable insight for policymakers and rideshare companies looking to optimize their services and increase user engagement in PR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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23 pages, 17440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Design Method for Shared Two-Wheeled Electric Scooters (STWESs), Integrating Context Theory and Kansei Engineering

by Junnan Ye, Yeping Gou, Haoyue Liang, Feifan Yuan and Chaoxiang Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3315; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083315 - 8 Apr 2025

Viewed by 639

Abstract

Consumer attitude shift and green transport advocacy in the sharing economy highlight shared two-wheeled electric scooters (STWESs) for short-distance commuting. Current designs often overlook user emotions and aesthetic alignment with product characteristics. A product design methodology is proposed in this study, constructing optimization [...] Read more.

Consumer attitude shift and green transport advocacy in the sharing economy highlight shared two-wheeled electric scooters (STWESs) for short-distance commuting. Current designs often overlook user emotions and aesthetic alignment with product characteristics. A product design methodology is proposed in this study, constructing optimization models from both the functional experiential and perceptual visual layers. Utilizing context analysis theory (CAT) and the KANO model, an STWES contextual requirements optimization model is formulated. The expert method is then applied to identify five key design elements, generating a category diagram based on typical samples, followed by Kansei evaluation. Using quantitation theory type I (QT-1), regression equations are fitted to determine the impact of different design categories on Kansei evaluation. Illustrated in a campus setting, this approach optimizes the shared mobility experience, meeting college students’ aesthetic preferences. This method serves as a valuable reference for product design in diverse contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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47 pages, 6056 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Logistics Distribution Centers Based on Economic Efficiency and Sustainability: Data Support from the Hohhot–Baotou–Ordos–Ulanqab Urban Agglomeration

by Kewei Wang, Kekun Fan and Yuhong Chen

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3273; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073273 - 7 Apr 2025

Viewed by 360

Abstract

This study proposes a nonlinear 0-1 mixed-integer programming model for optimizing the location of logistics distribution centers within the Hohhot–Baotou–Ordos–Ulanqab urban agglomeration, integrating transportation costs, carbon emissions, and operational coefficients. The optimization problem is solved using a genetic algorithm (GA), whose robustness is [...] Read more.

This study proposes a nonlinear 0-1 mixed-integer programming model for optimizing the location of logistics distribution centers within the Hohhot–Baotou–Ordos–Ulanqab urban agglomeration, integrating transportation costs, carbon emissions, and operational coefficients. The optimization problem is solved using a genetic algorithm (GA), whose robustness is systematically validated through comparative analyses with linear programming (LP) and alternative heuristic optimization methods including simulated annealing (SA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO). Comprehensive sensitivity analyses are conducted on critical parameters—including transportation costs, demand fluctuations, carbon pricing mechanisms, the logistics center capacity, land use impact, and water resource constraints—to evaluate the model’s adaptability under diverse operational scenarios. The research methodology incorporates environmental impact factors, including carbon emission costs, land resource utilization, and water resource management, thereby extending traditional optimization frameworks to address region-specific ecological sensitivity concerns. The empirical results demonstrate that the optimized location configuration significantly reduces logistics operational costs while simultaneously enhancing both the economic efficiency and environmental sustainability, thus fostering regional economic coordination. This study makes several key contributions: (1) developing an integrated decision-making framework that balances economic efficiency and environmental sustainability; (2) systematically incorporating environmental impact factors into the optimization model; (3) establishing calibration methods specifically tailored for ecologically sensitive regions; and (4) demonstrating the potential for the synergistic optimization of economic and environmental objectives through strategic logistics network planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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21 pages, 2590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Additive Manufacturing for Remedying Supply Chain Disruptions and Building Resilient and Sustainable Logistics Support Systems

by M. Hakan Keskin, Murat Koray, Ercan Kaya, Mehmet Maşuk Fidan and Mehmet Ziya Söğüt

Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2783; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062783 - 20 Mar 2025

Viewed by 958

Abstract

Leading industries have implemented various strategic initiatives to enhance the resilience and sustainability of their logistics support systems in response to series of unforeseen disruptions that have significantly impacted supply chains (SCs) and incurred substantial costs over the past few decades. It is [...] Read more.

Leading industries have implemented various strategic initiatives to enhance the resilience and sustainability of their logistics support systems in response to series of unforeseen disruptions that have significantly impacted supply chains (SCs) and incurred substantial costs over the past few decades. It is essential to assess whether incorporating additive manufacturing (AM) technologies into logistics support processes—either as a complementary solution or in conjunction with existing strategies—can effectively reduce vulnerabilities to disruptions in modern, complex SCs. AM technologies that enable the use of business models that use distributed manufacturing, as opposed to centralized manufacturing, have the potential to create significant change in traditional SCs by bringing parts and products closer to the customer. The supply of raw materials necessary for AM production is lower than that of traditional methods. While this provides a cost benefit in the current structure, there are still challenges, such as in testing and final adjustments of printing parameters. AM technologies enable shorter delivery times compared to traditional manufacturing methods while also reducing distribution costs. This not only enhances service levels, but also lowers inventory costs across all stages of the SC. Additionally, AM technologies can help businesses comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations introduced in recent decades. Both AM-based production and the logistics processes that support it have smaller ecological footprints compared to traditional manufacturing, making it a more sustainable alternative. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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25 pages, 3257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Solutions for Ukrainian Grain Transit Through Poland: Enhancing Terminal Infrastructure

by Vitalii Naumov, Yevhen Aloshynskyi and Marek Bauer

Sustainability 2025, 17(3), 1195; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17031195 - 1 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1044

Abstract

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has significantly disrupted global food supply chains, exacerbating existing food security challenges. To mitigate these disruptions, this study proposes a comprehensive approach to establishing sustainable intermodal terminals and technology parks along the Ukrainian–Polish border. To address this research [...] Read more.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has significantly disrupted global food supply chains, exacerbating existing food security challenges. To mitigate these disruptions, this study proposes a comprehensive approach to establishing sustainable intermodal terminals and technology parks along the Ukrainian–Polish border. To address this research issue, we analyzed the Ukrainian and global grain markets using publicly available statistical data. This analysis revealed the need to enhance grain transit through Poland, with terminal development identified as a crucial factor. Furthermore, a thorough analysis of the Polish freight rail transport market provided forecasts of potential demand for rail transit. Utilizing Petri nets as a modeling tool, we simulated the transit system at the macro level. Based on this simulation, we identified potential locations for freight terminals at the Ukrainian border near EU countries. Employing the AHP methodology, we evaluated these potential locations and selected Kovel in the Volyn region of Ukraine as the most promising alternative. For this location, we proposed the development of a new technological park. The implementation of this project, with the capacity to process and clear up to 600 wagons per day, would facilitate the transshipment of up to 3000 tons of grain per day from Ukraine to EU countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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24 pages, 3309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Multi-Channel Green Supply Chain Dynamics with Renewable Energy Integration and Emissions Reduction

by Mehdi Safaei, Saleh Al Dawsari and Khalid Yahya

Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 9710; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229710 - 7 Nov 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1375

Abstract

In response to the global imperative of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and the shifting landscape of business models toward multi-channel structures, this study delves into the intricacies of a green supply chain. Operating through both online and traditional channels with uncertain demands, [...] Read more.

In response to the global imperative of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and the shifting landscape of business models toward multi-channel structures, this study delves into the intricacies of a green supply chain. Operating through both online and traditional channels with uncertain demands, the producer’s distribution strategy prompts an exploration of supply chain dynamics. Utilizing an integer programming model, this study calculates optimal prices, optimizes total profit, and minimizes transportation costs to curtail carbon dioxide emissions, depending on the transportation mode. Additionally, this study incorporates renewable energy sources into the production and transportation processes to further minimize carbon dioxide emissions. The integration of renewable energy not only supports environmental goals, but also contributes to the overall profitability of the supply chain by reducing energy costs. Employing a theoretical technique for linearization, the model, resolved through the Jimenez and TH methods, demonstrates efficacy in reconciling economic and environmental goals. The Jimenez method enables the transformation of fuzzy parameters into deterministic equivalents, allowing for a more reliable optimization during uncertainty, while the TH method provides an interactive fuzzy multi-objective approach, aligning the model’s dual objectives for both economic and environmental goals. Notably, when transportation costs to both markets are equal, the model prioritizes devices with a lower environmental impact, showcasing adaptability. Furthermore, the proposed solution empowers decision makers to influence pricing and enhance the entire supply chain’s profitability. In conclusion, this research offers nuanced insights, strategically aligning economic viability with environmental sustainability in the discourse on green supply chains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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23 pages, 1132 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Logistics Companies’ Readiness towards Adopting Synchromodality in the Flanders Region

by Shafagh Alaei, Koen Mommens, Javier Durán-Micco and Cathy Macharis

Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4834; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114834 - 5 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1467

Abstract

The transport sector accounts for approximately a quarter of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with freight transport alone accounting for about one-third of the overall transport-related emissions. Mitigating the sector’s environmental impact is crucial for tackling climate change and achieving sustainable development [...] Read more.

The transport sector accounts for approximately a quarter of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with freight transport alone accounting for about one-third of the overall transport-related emissions. Mitigating the sector’s environmental impact is crucial for tackling climate change and achieving sustainable development goals. Modal shift is one of the main solutions to address this challenge; however, many companies have yet to realize its full potential. This paper presents a survey conducted in the Flanders region of Belgium, aiming to identify the challenges and barriers faced by industry players in this key geographical area and to explore the reasons behind the limited implementation of synchromodal transport among them. The survey evaluates the current state of synchromodal transport adoption and offers valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders aiming to enhance sustainability in the logistics sector. The findings emphasize that to overcome the identified challenges, both policy support and the companies’ commitment are required. Policy support includes establishing consistent regulations and promoting greener transport modes through providing incentives and technological advancements. This research contributes to the field by examining barriers to the adoption of synchromodality and exploring its application within the context of Flanders. By focusing on this strategic logistics hub, the study provides insights and recommendations tailored to the specific challenges of the region’s logistics sector. The challenges faced by industry players in Flanders offer a deeper understanding of modal shift dynamics, facilitating informed decision-making for policymakers and industry stakeholders. Implementing these strategies paves the way for more environmentally friendly, efficient, and integrated transport, benefiting both the industry and the planet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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19 pages, 3034 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Transportation Costs on the Establishment of an Industrial Symbiosis Network

by Mohamed Amine Anane, Faezeh Bagheri, Elvezia Maria Cepolina and Flavio Tonelli

Sustainability 2023, 15(22), 15701; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152215701 - 7 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1466

Abstract

The challenges related to natural resource depletion and environmental issues stimulate businesses to look for solutions to overcome them. One of the leading strategies that have emerged from the practical implementation of the circular economy concept is industrial symbiosis, which aims to reduce [...] Read more.

The challenges related to natural resource depletion and environmental issues stimulate businesses to look for solutions to overcome them. One of the leading strategies that have emerged from the practical implementation of the circular economy concept is industrial symbiosis, which aims to reduce material extraction and consumption by using the waste (co-product) of one company as input for production processes of another company. This study aims to provide a more profound insight into industrial symbiosis (IS) modeling by considering the transport system impact. To this end, a hybrid approach based on agent-based modeling and system dynamics is presented to comprehensively capture the complexity of interactions between companies and their related impacts on transportation. A case study and numerical example are discussed to validate the proposed approach and related model. The results demonstrate that the development of IS, as expected, is significantly influenced by the transport system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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25 pages, 4754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Simulation-Based Experimental Design for Analyzing Energy Consumption and Order Tardiness in Warehousing Systems

by Hyun-woo Jeon, Ahmad Ebrahimi and Ga-hyun Lee

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14891; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014891 - 15 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1627

Abstract

For warehouses to be more sustainable and cost-effective, it is essential to consider energy consumption (EC) and order tardiness (OT) together in evaluating warehouse activities since improving both EC and OT at the same time is very demanding. While existing studies try to [...] Read more.

For warehouses to be more sustainable and cost-effective, it is essential to consider energy consumption (EC) and order tardiness (OT) together in evaluating warehouse activities since improving both EC and OT at the same time is very demanding. While existing studies try to improve EC and OT, the current studies consider only either a reserve area or a forward area between the two major warehouse areas. Thus, this study proposes a simulation-based approach to assessing EC and OT when reserve and forward areas are considered together in one framework for different configurations of five important warehousing parameters: (i) number of forklifts, (ii) number of storage/retrieval (S/R) machines, (iii) number of automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS) input/output (I/O) points, (iv) order size, and (v) proportions of order flows through a reserve or forward area. In particular, we use real forklift movement and energy data for our simulation models to provide a more realistic analysis. By building the simulation model with the 2⁵ full factorial experimental design, we analyze the results with analysis of variance (ANOVA). The resulting Pareto-optimal solutions show that less traffic flows through a reserve area can help improve both EC and OT while other factors have smaller or limited effects on the two responses. Also, the order flow factor has the largest effect on EC while order size has the largest effect on OT. The results from this study can help warehouse operators make informed decisions in considering and finding a trade-off between sustainability and customer satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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15 pages, 786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Online Delivery Problem for Hybrid Truck–Drone System with Independent and Truck-Carried Drones

by Mengyuan Gou and Haiyan Yu

Sustainability 2023, 15(2), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15021584 - 13 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2461

Abstract

Considering real-time requests and multiple truck–drone delivery modes, we propose an online delivery problem using a truck and some drones, which form a hybrid truck–drone delivery collaboration system comprising independent and truck-carried drones. Considering this problem, we focus on how to schedule the [...] Read more.

Considering real-time requests and multiple truck–drone delivery modes, we propose an online delivery problem using a truck and some drones, which form a hybrid truck–drone delivery collaboration system comprising independent and truck-carried drones. Considering this problem, we focus on how to schedule the vehicles to serve real-time requests, with the objective of minimizing the time of the latest vehicle’s return to the delivery station. First, we proved the lower bound of this problem to be 1.5. Second, we designed an online re-planning algorithm and proved its competitive ratio to be 2.5. As the online re-planning algorithm invokes an offline algorithm, an offline model was established, and an offline drone priority algorithm was designed. Then, we verified the effectiveness of the offline algorithm by comparing it with the CPLEX solution, and the stability of the online re-planning algorithm with different input parameters was studied through MATLAB simulation. Finally, the minimal latest time saving was calculated by comparing the hybrid truck–drone collaboration system with a truck-only delivery system. This research provides theoretical support for addressing the hybrid truck–drone delivery problem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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21 pages, 754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Food Supply Chain in Green Logistics with Multi-Level Processing Strategy under Disruptions

by Ming Liu, Hao Tang, Yunfeng Wang, Ruixi Li, Yi Liu, Xin Liu, Yaqian Wang, Yiyang Wu, Yu Wu and Zhijun Sun

Sustainability 2023, 15(2), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15020917 - 4 Jan 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2734

Abstract

Food supply chains (FSCs) have long been exposed to environmental variability and shock events caused by various economic, political, and infrastructural factors. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed and identified the vulnerability of FSCs, and promoted integrated optimization approaches for [...] Read more.

Food supply chains (FSCs) have long been exposed to environmental variability and shock events caused by various economic, political, and infrastructural factors. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed and identified the vulnerability of FSCs, and promoted integrated optimization approaches for building resilience. However, existing works focusing on general supply chains (SCs) and FSCs have not been fully aware of the distinct characteristics of FSCs in green logistics, i.e., the expiration of fresh products. In reality, perishable food materials can be processed into products of different processing levels (i.e., multi-level processing) for longer shelf lives, which can serve as a timely and economic strategy to increase safety stocks for mitigating disruption risks. Motivated by this fact, we study the problem of enhancing FSC with a multi-level processing strategy. An integrated location, inventory, and distribution planning model for a multi-echelon FSC under COVID-19-related disruptions is formulated to maximize the total profit over a finite planning horizon. Specifically, a two-stage stochastic programming model is presented to hedge against disruption risks, where scenarios are generated to characterize geographical impact induced by source-region disruptions. For small-scale problems, the model can be solved with commercial solvers. To exactly and efficiently solve the large-scale instances, we design an integer L-shaped method. Numerical experiments are conducted on a case study and randomly generated instances to show the efficiency of our model and solution method. Based on the case study, managerial insights are drawn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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22 pages, 1157 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Airline-Fleet Assignment with Uncertain Passenger Demand and Fuel Price

by Ming Liu, Yueyu Ding, Lihua Sun, Runchun Zhang, Yue Dong, Zihan Zhao, Yiting Wang and Chaoran Liu

Sustainability 2023, 15(2), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15020899 - 4 Jan 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2960

Abstract

Although air transport contributes to globalization, airline emissions have attracted focus in green logistics. In this work, we investigate the airline-fleet assignment problem from a risk-averse perspective in which uncertain demand and fuel price are considered simultaneously. The objective is to maximise the [...] Read more.

Although air transport contributes to globalization, airline emissions have attracted focus in green logistics. In this work, we investigate the airline-fleet assignment problem from a risk-averse perspective in which uncertain demand and fuel price are considered simultaneously. The objective is to maximise the total profit in a risk-averse fashion, i.e., the weighted sum of the expected profit and the conditional value at risk of profit. An appropriate assignment can reduce fuel use and carbon dioxide emissions. For the problem, a two-stage stochastic programming model is constructed. The first stage consists of assigning aircraft families to flight legs, while the second stage determines specific aircraft deployment with the realized information. To solve the problem, a sample average approximation (SAA) approach is firstly applied. An efficient string-based heuristic is, further, developed. Numerical experiments are conducted and sensitivity analysis is performed. The results show the efficiency of the proposed heuristic and managerial insights are drawn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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18 pages, 2302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Consumer Sentiment on Manufacturers’ Green Technology Innovation: A RDEU Evolutionary Game Model

by Hongbo Guo, Mengtong Lu and Lili Ding

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010706 - 30 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2171

Abstract

In the information era, the fluctuation of consumer sentiments plays a key role in the green technology innovation of manufacturers. This paper introduces RDEU theory to the evolutionary game model to analyze the existence of equilibrium under different sentiment states. Then, the model [...] Read more.

In the information era, the fluctuation of consumer sentiments plays a key role in the green technology innovation of manufacturers. This paper introduces RDEU theory to the evolutionary game model to analyze the existence of equilibrium under different sentiment states. Then, the model is numerically simulated to study the influence of sentiments on the participants’ strategies. The results indicate that under different sentiment states green technology innovation and green purchasing behavior present different evolutionary trajectories. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) When both parties have no sentiments, there is a stable equilibrium point, suggesting customers are willing to purchase green products and manufacturers choose green technology innovation strategies. (2) When both parties have sentiments, the rising consumer boycott sentiment will hinder optimistic manufacturers from choosing green technology innovation strategies. Furthermore, the rising support sentiment of the consumer promotes optimistic manufacturers’ green technology innovations, and the more manufacturers deviate from the rational state, the more likely they are to maintain the current production mode. (3) When only one party has a sentiment, the manufacturer’s rationality plays a more important role in promoting green technology innovation than the consumer’s rationality. Based on the above conclusions, this paper proposes some sentiment guidance strategies that are conducive to green production and consumption. This study provides a new perspective and theoretical guidance for studying the behavior of green supply chain members to promote the development of green economy circulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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14 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coordinated Distribution or Client Introduce? Analysis of Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction in Canadian Logistics Enterprises

by Yuntao Bai, Yuan Gao, Delong Li and Dehai Liu

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 16979; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142416979 - 18 Dec 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1718

Abstract

Due to the large area and small population of Canada, the efficiency of logistics enterprises is low, and each logistics enterprise needs to cooperate to save energy and reduce emissions. Considering that each logistics enterprise can realize the maximization of its own benefit [...] Read more.

Due to the large area and small population of Canada, the efficiency of logistics enterprises is low, and each logistics enterprise needs to cooperate to save energy and reduce emissions. Considering that each logistics enterprise can realize the maximization of its own benefit by controlling the distribution volume and the input of facilities. In this article, the differential game model of individual distribution, coordinated distribution and paid introduction of customers for each logistics enterprise is constructed, the balanced distribution volume, capital input and social welfare functions of each logistics enterprise under the three modes are obtained, and the applicable conditions of various distribution cooperation channels are compared. The research results show that if the organizational cost between logistics enterprises is greater than the communication cost, the benefits of large-scale logistics enterprises under the introduction customer mode are greater than those under the collaborative distribution mode. However, only the communication cost and organizational cost are relatively small, and the profit of small-scale logistics enterprises under the introduction of the customer mode is smaller than that under the collaborative distribution mode. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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21 pages, 3154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Entropy-Maximization-Based Customer Order Allocation of Clothing Production Enterprises in the Sharing Economy

by Feifeng Zheng, Chunle Kang, Qinrui Song and Ming Liu

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15106; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215106 - 15 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1678

Abstract

With the rapid development of the sharing economy, more and more platform operators apply the sharing concept in manufacturing, which increases the efficiency of assets utilization. Considering the apparel industry, clothing enterprises or manufacturers may share their excess orders between each other via [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of the sharing economy, more and more platform operators apply the sharing concept in manufacturing, which increases the efficiency of assets utilization. Considering the apparel industry, clothing enterprises or manufacturers may share their excess orders between each other via a manufacturing cloud platform. Under the traditional production mode, manufacturers focus on processing their individual orders. There may be a coexistence of insufficient and surplus production capabilities. Some manufacturers cannot meet their customer demands due to limited capabilities and some orders have to be rejected, while some other manufacturers may have excess capacities with insufficient demands. It results in loss of revenue, and it is not conducive to maintaining a good customer relationship. In this paper, we consider a shared system with multiple manufacturers that produce homogeneous products, and the manufacturers in the shared system can share customer orders with each other. Once any manufacturer cannot fulfill all of its orders, the unsatisfied ones will be shared with other manufacturers that have surplus capacities with the aim of improving the balance of resource utilization and risk resistance of all manufacturers on the platform. The entropy maximization theory is mainly adopted to facilitate the formulation of the objective function. We apply a Taylor expansion to reformulate the objective function and construct a mixed-integer quadratic programming (MIQP) model. We employ off-the-shelf solvers to solve small-scale problems, and also propose a two-stage constructive heuristic algorithm to solve large-scale problems. Numerical experiments are conducted to demonstrate the efficiency of the algorithm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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Review

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20 pages, 1373 KiB

Open AccessReview

Barriers to Visibility in Supply Chains: Challenges and Opportunities of Artificial Intelligence Driven by Industry 4.0 Technologies

by Fernanda Delgado, Susana Garrido and Barbara Stolte Bezerra

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2998; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072998 - 27 Mar 2025

Viewed by 885

Abstract

Advancements in e-commerce and Industry 4.0 technologies have significantly improved communication and connectivity in supply chains. These technologies, particularly artificial intelligence driven by Industry 4.0 technologies (AI-IT4.0), have reshaped how products, services, and financial transactions are managed, emphasizing the importance of information sharing [...] Read more.

Advancements in e-commerce and Industry 4.0 technologies have significantly improved communication and connectivity in supply chains. These technologies, particularly artificial intelligence driven by Industry 4.0 technologies (AI-IT4.0), have reshaped how products, services, and financial transactions are managed, emphasizing the importance of information sharing among supply chain participants to enhance inventory management, sales, and demand forecasting. However, sharing comprehensive information across supply chain stakeholders presents persistent challenges due to various barriers. This study seeks to review the current understanding of visibility barriers in supply chains, identify key obstacles, and suggest directions for future research. Using the PRISMA methodology, the study analyzed 20 articles, identifying 12 critical barriers to visibility. Bibliometric analysis has revealed growing interest in the topic since 2021, although evidence of collaborative research remains limited. A keyword co-occurrence analysis highlighted strong connections between visibility, supply chain management, sustainability, and artificial intelligence driven by industry 4.0 technologies, such as machine learning, predictive analytics, and digital twins. Future research should empirically investigate visibility barriers and explore the interplay between AI-TI4.0, visibility, and sustainable performance through case studies and quantitative approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Logistics and Intelligent Transportation)

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