Search Results (356)

Produce supply chains play a critical role in ensuring fruits and vegetables reach consumers efficiently, affordably, and at optimal freshness. In recent decades, hub-and-spoke network models have emerged as valuable tools for optimizing sustainable cold food supply chains. Traditional optimization efforts typically focus on removing inefficiencies, minimizing lead times, refining inventory management, strengthening supplier relationships, and leveraging technological advancements for better visibility and control. However, the majority of models rely on deterministic approaches that overlook the inherent uncertainties of crop yields, which are further intensified by climate variability. Rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, along with shifting temperature patterns and extreme weather events, have a substantial effect on crop productivity and availability. Such uncertainties can prompt distributors to seek alternative sources, increasing costs due to supply chain reconfiguration. This research introduces a stochastic hub-and-spoke network optimization model specifically designed to minimize transportation expenses by determining optimal distribution routes that explicitly account for climate variability effects on crop yields. A use case involving a cold food supply chain (CFSC) was carried out using several weather scenarios based on climate models and real soil data for California. Strawberries were selected as a representative crop, given California’s leading role in strawberry production. Simulation results show that scenarios characterized by increased rainfall during growing seasons result in increased yields, allowing distributors to reduce transportation costs by sourcing from nearby farms. Conversely, scenarios with reduced rainfall and lower yields require sourcing from more distant locations, thereby increasing transportation costs. Nonetheless, supply chain configurations may vary depending on the choice of climate models or weather prediction sources, highlighting the importance of regularly updating scenario inputs to ensure robust planning. This tool aids decision-making by planning climate-resilient supply chains, enhancing preparedness and responsiveness to future climate-related disruptions. Full article

As environmental issues become increasingly prominent, the sustainable practices of enterprises, especially measures at the product level, have garnered widespread attention from scholars. Although numerous studies have explored suppliers’ sales strategies for green products, they often overlook the scenario where suppliers simultaneously sell both green and non-green products.This study focuses on the sales mode selection strategies of suppliers when providing green and non-green products through e-commerce platforms. Utilizing a game model, we analyze the equilibrium strategies between suppliers and e-commerce platforms, and conduct sensitivity analyses to evaluate the impact of key parameters on decision-making. The results reveal that there are significant differences in the strategic preferences of suppliers and e-commerce platforms. However, when commission rates are moderate and green products incur high production costs, these preferences tend to align, leading to Pareto optimal outcomes. Additionally, our findings demonstrate that adopting differentiated sales modes for the two product types can effectively mitigate the problem of double marginalization, thereby enhancing the efficiencyof supply chains. These insights provide valuable guidance for e-commerce platform managers and suppliers in making decisions on sales models for managing multiple types of products. Full article

Production involves processes such as raw material extraction, energy consumption, and waste management, which can lead to significant environmental consequences. Therefore, supplier selection based not only on technical performance but also on environmental sustainability criteria has become a fundamental component of eco-friendly manufacturing strategies. Moreover, in the selection of electric vehicle batteries, it is essential to consider customer demands alongside environmental factors. Accordingly, selected suppliers should fulfill company expectations while also reflecting the “voice” of the customer. The objective of this study is to propose an integrated approach for green supplier selection by taking into account various environmental performance requirements and criteria. The proposed approach evaluates battery suppliers with respect to both customer requirements and green criteria. To construct the relational structure, the DEMATEL method was employed to analyze the interrelationships among customer requirements (CRs). Subsequently, the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) model was used to establish a central relational matrix that captures the degree of correlation between each pair of supplier selection criteria and CRs. Finally, to evaluate and rank alternative suppliers, the Interval Type-2 Fuzzy VIKOR (IT2 F-VIKOR) method was applied. The hybrid approach proposed by us, integrating DEMATEL, QFD, and IT2 F-VIKOR, offers significant improvements over traditional methods. Unlike previous approaches that focus independently on customer preferences or supplier criteria, our model provides a unified evaluation by considering both dimensions simultaneously. Furthermore, the use of Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Logic enables the model to better manage uncertainty and ambiguity in expert judgments, yielding more reliable results compared to conventional fuzzy approaches. Additionally, the applicability of the model has been demonstrated through a real-world case study, confirming its practical relevance and robustness in the selection of green suppliers for electric vehicle battery procurement. Full article

Effective management of the hydrogen supply chain (HSC), starting with supplier selection, is crucial for advancing the hydrogen industry and economy. Supplier selection, a complex Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) problem in an inherently uncertain environment, requires careful consideration. This study proposes a novel hybrid MCDA framework that integrates the Bayesian Best–Worst Method (BWM), Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Entropy Weight Method (EWM) for robust criteria weighting, which is aggregated using a game theory-based model to resolve inconsistencies and capture the complementary strengths of each technique. Next, the globally weighted criteria, emphasizing sustainability performance and techno-risk considerations, are used in the TODIM method grounded in prospect theory to rank hydrogen suppliers. Numerical experiments demonstrate the approach’s ability to enhance decision robustness compared to standalone MCDA methods. The comparative evaluation and sensitivity analysis confirm the stability and reliability of the proposed method, offering valuable insights for strategic supplier selection in the evolving hydrogen landscape in the HSC. Full article

This paper presents a novel approach to supplier clustering by utilizing the Arithmetic Optimizer Algorithm (AOA), addressing the complex challenge of supplier segmentation in modern supply chain management. The AOA framework is applied to solve the multi-criteria clustering problem inherent to supplier classification. Using a real-world dataset of 500 suppliers with 12 performance criteria, including cost, quality, delivery reliability, and sustainability metrics, our method demonstrates effective clustering performance compared to conventional techniques. The AOA achieves a silhouette coefficient of 56.5% and a Davies–Bouldin index of 56.6%, outperforming several other state-of-the-art metaheuristic algorithms, including the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), and Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO). The algorithm’s robustness is validated through extensive sensitivity analysis and statistical tests. The results indicate that the proposed approach successfully identifies distinct supplier segments with approximately 85% accuracy, enabling more effective supplier relationship management strategies. Full article

The concepts of sustainable development, triple bottom line, and ESG have a strong influence on the process of formation and operation of supply chains today. This requires the implementation of various green solutions and practices to improve supply chain sustainability. An analysis of supply chain research did not reveal a universally accepted methodology to systematize green solutions and practices for their effective use in chain management. It was revealed that there are many views on the content of green solutions, in addition to insufficient specificity of their description, as well as fragmentation of the use of green solutions in relation to the elements and functions of supply chains (procurement, production, warehousing, transportation, and distribution). This reduces the effectiveness of the implementation of green solutions. In this study, based on the literature review, a systematization of currently existing green solutions and practices was carried out. The systematization was performed according to the affiliation of supply chain elements and the functions performed by the elements to promote and process the material flow from supplier to consumer. The proposed system of methods (GLMs) and instruments (GLIs) of green logistics covers all known functional areas of logistics and includes 27 methods and 105 instruments. We performed a ranking of methods and instruments using TOPSIS, MABAC, and MARCOS methods. The most and least significant GLM and GLI for each element of the supply chain, as well as for chains of complex structure in general, were determined. The results of GLM and GLI ranking can be used as a basis for the implementation of management decisions to improve the sustainability of supply chains. Full article

Background: The agri-food sector is a major contributor to environmental degradation and emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable practices to mitigate its impact. Within this sector, perishable food crops require targeted efforts to reduce their environmental footprint. Vertical integration is crucial for ensuring alignment between strategic and tactical decision making in supply chain management. This article presents a multi-objective mathematical model that integrates both economic and environmental considerations within the perishable food supply chain, aiming to determine optimal solutions for conflicting objectives. Methods: In this research, we employed combining goal programming with the epsilon constraint approach; this comprehensive methodology reveals optimal solutions by discretizing the values derived from the payoff table. Results: The model is applied to a real case study of the tomato paste supply chain in Ethiopia. To identify Pareto-efficient points, the results are presented in two scenarios: Case I and Case II. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the significant influence of the geographical location of manufacturing centers in supplier selection, which helps optimize the trade-off between environmental impact and total cost. The proposed solution provides decision makers with an effective strategy to optimize both total cost and eco-costs in the design of perishable food supply chain networks. Full article

The fashion industry represents a dynamic expression of cultural diversity and plays a crucial role in national economic health. This research designs strategic management guidance for BANU, a sustainable clothing startup in Senegal aimed at empowering local families to improve their lifestyles. Utilizing an exploratory research strategy, the study develops a comprehensive strategic plan for BANU as a natural textile dyes company, examining factors influencing its development at the macro, micro, and organization layers to identify key strategic issues and strategic options as a comprehensive strategic management plan for BANU to grow. A multifaceted strategic approach is recommended, including tailored operational strategies aligned with local traditions, sustainability, and customer engagement. Collaborations with local businesses, suppliers, and educational institutions are advised to strengthen BANU’s market presence. Additionally, differentiation through unique natural dye clothing and partnerships are encouraged. As BANU evolves, a shift towards corporate strategy, diversification, and international market expansion is suggested to enhance strategic management and ensure sustainable growth. Full article

In addressing the complexities of sustainable development, the integration of digital technologies (DTs) with supply chain collaboration offers firms diverse strategic solutions. While prior studies have examined how DT shapes internal decision-making and stakeholder engagement, limited attention has been paid to how DT influences the dynamic collaborative capabilities of distinct supply chain stakeholders in advancing corporate sustainability. Grounded in the dynamic resource-based view (Dynamic RBV), this study conceptualizes sustainable dynamic capabilities (SDCs) as comprising sustainable information capability (SIC) and sustainable relationship capability (SRC)—the abilities to share sustainability-related information and to adapt and leverage external sustainable partnerships, respectively. Using panel data from manufacturing firms listed on China’s Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share markets between 2010 and 2023, sourced from CSMAR and iFinD databases, this study employs fixed-effects and system GMM models to test the proposed relationships. Results show that DT enhances SIC, which in turn facilitates SRC, ultimately improving corporate sustainability performance (CSP). Moreover, firms at different supply chain positions exhibit distinct sustainability priorities as upstream suppliers focus on resource efficiency, while downstream customers emphasize environmental compliance and product-level sustainability. These upstream and downstream actors influence CSP through two mechanisms—resource-driven “source-push” and demand-driven “value chain-pull”. This study deepens the understanding of stakeholder heterogeneity in sustainable collaboration and offers practical insights for managers to tailor sustainability strategies that reinforce supply chain-wide dynamic capabilities. Full article

Organizations worldwide are moving towards sustainability in the supply chains (SCs). Ergonomics management (EM) in SCs can contribute to their social sustainability (SS) by providing a fair, safe, and healthy environment. The literature recognizes the lack of an ergonomics management evaluation model (EMEM) for SCs contributing to SS. This research aims to propose an EMEM applicable to SCs. A continuous improvement approach with five constructs: Plan, Do, Check, Act, and Leadership and Worker participation (L&WP) was conducted, including nineteen domains, and the axiomatic design methodology was deployed. Design ranges (DRs) were defined by 34 experts from Latin America. System ranges (SRs) were assessed by self-assessments of EM practices to obtain the information content axiom in one case study of the Mexican salt industry. A new ergonomics management index for the supply chain (EMISC) and a corresponding scale were implemented. According to this scale, the index was found to be low, indicating a poor ergonomics management index (EMI) for the supplier link across the nineteen domains. The proposed EMEM effectively obtains an EMI of the supply chain (SC) by link and entirely. The model identifies opportunities to improve ergonomics practices for companies participating in sustainable supply chains (SSC). Full article

This study conducts a systematic literature review based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) process. The Scopus database is our main source of data, and our data analyses comprised bibliometric, systematic, and advanced analyses conducted with the help of VOSviewer. The analysis pinpoints the various roles played by AI in SCF: the strengthening of supply chain resilience and management, especially in times of crises like the COVID-19 pandemic; the convergence of sustainability performances via better relationships with suppliers; the effective management of risks by anticipating distress and fraud; improvements in working capital and supply chain efficiency; and tracking supply chain activities while on the go with IoT (Internet of Things). However, the following major setbacks are also observed: implementation challenges, large initial investments, resistance to change, a dearth of expertise in AI, security and privacy concerns, challenges in the integration of systems, the reliability of the data’s quality, etc. Full article

Digital agriculture has rapidly developed in the last decade in many countries where the share of agricultural production is a significant part of the total volume of gross production. Digital agroecosystems are developed using a variety of IT solutions, software and hardware tools, wired and wireless data transmission technologies, open source code, Open API, etc. A special place in agroecosystems is occupied by electronic payment technologies and blockchain technologies, which allow farmers and other agricultural enterprises to conduct commodity and monetary transactions with suppliers, creditors, and buyers of products. Such ecosystems contribute to the sustainable development of agriculture, agricultural engineering, and management of production and financial operations in the agricultural industry and related industries, as well as in other sectors of the economy of a number of countries. The introduction of crypto solutions in the agricultural sector is designed to create integrated platforms aimed at helping farmers manage supply lines or gain access to financial services. At the same time, there are risks of illegal use of computing power for cryptocurrency mining—cryptojacking. This article offers a thorough risk assessment of cryptojacking attacks on endpoint systems, focusing on identifying critical vulnerabilities within IT infrastructures and outlining practical preventive measures. The analysis examines key attack vectors—including compromised websites, infected applications, and supply chain infiltration—and explores how unauthorized cryptocurrency mining degrades system performance and endangers data security. The research methodology combines an evaluation of current cybersecurity trends, a review of specialized literature, and a controlled experiment simulating cryptojacking attacks. The findings highlight the importance of multi-layered protection mechanisms and ongoing system monitoring to detect malicious activities at an early stage. Full article

The logistics sector plays a critical role in global trade but faces significant risks due to geopolitical instability, economic downturns, and environmental disruptions. This study investigates risk and crisis management strategies within the logistics industry by integrating qualitative expert interviews with quantitative analysis using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). It identifies key risks, such as supply chain disruptions, fluctuating market conditions, and infrastructure challenges, and assesses the most effective mitigation strategies. Findings indicate that diversifying transport routes and implementing business continuity planning are the most critical strategies, while technological advancements, including artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, significantly enhance resilience. Collaboration among logistics companies, suppliers, and policymakers is essential for effective crisis management. The AHP analysis ranks crisis management strategies, providing a practical framework for logistics firms to improve risk preparedness. This study contributes to the field by offering actionable recommendations to enhance crisis response and long-term sustainability. The results underscore the necessity of adaptive and proactive risk management approaches in an increasingly volatile global logistics landscape. Full article

The digital transformation of the railway industry is necessary for addressing growing challenges and advancing its sustainable development. Digital technologies include Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and Remote Train Control (RTC), which offer opportunities to potentially optimize operations and enhance safety. Both technologies, however, could pose significant challenges that need to be addressed in order to capture the anticipated benefits in an urban public street environment. This study thus bridges the gap between theory and practice by exploring the projected benefits and challenges of implementing RTC and ATO through a case study of a European public transport operator deploying these technologies in tramway operations. Employing a case study methodology, the research draws on 44 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders from the operator and its supplier. The findings highlight significant anticipated benefits, including increased productivity, improved safety, and enhanced sustainability. Yet, prospective challenges such as regulatory hurdles, technical complexities, and organizational changes pose barriers to implementation. Key obstacles include ensuring robust connectivity, addressing cybersecurity concerns, and managing workforce transitions. This study underscores the importance of collaborative approaches, stakeholder engagement, and incremental deployment to mitigate risks and maximize the impact of automation technologies. By providing actionable insights into the practical adoption of RTC and ATO, this research supports the development of advanced urban transport systems. Full article

The transition toward sustainability in the construction industry requires integrated tools that align with circular economy principles. This study introduces the Interactive Stakeholder Journey Map in Construction (ISJMC), an innovative visual and systemic tool that supports waste management and circularity throughout the life cycle of construction assets. Although the sector is economically significant, it remains one of the main contributors to environmental degradation due to high resource consumption and low waste recovery rates. Developed according to EN 15643-3:2012, a European standard that provides a framework for assessing the social sustainability of construction works, focusing on aspects such as accessibility, health, and comfort and grounded in the Design Thinking methodology, ISJMC enables mapping stakeholder interactions, touchpoints, and responsibilities across all life cycle stages, including initiative, design, procurement, construction, use, and end of life. A systematic literature review and collaborative workshops guided the tool’s development and validation. The application in a real case involving a medium-sized Brazilian construction company helped identify significant pain points and opportunities for implementing circular practices. The results demonstrate that ISJMC (i) facilitates a systemic and visual understanding of material and information flows, (ii) promotes transparent mapping of resource value to support better decision-making, and (iii) encourages the identification of circularity opportunities while fostering collaboration among stakeholders. The tool revealed critical challenges related to waste generation and management. It supported co-creating sustainable strategies, including improved material selection, lean construction practices, and stronger supplier engagement. By translating complex standards into accessible visual formats, ISJMC contributes to the academic field, supports practical applications, and offers a foundation for expanding circular approaches in construction projects. Full article