Benchmarking the risk assessment in green supply chain using fuzzy approach to FMEA: Insights from an Indian case study

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to facilitate green supply chain (GSC) managers and planners to model and access GSC risks and probable failures. This paper proposes to use the fuzzy failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) approach for assessing the risks associated with GSC for benchmarking the performance in terms of effective GSC management adoption and sustainable production.

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, different failure modes are defined using FMEA analysis, and in order to decide the risk priority, the risk priority number (RPN) is determined. Such priority numbers are typically acquired from the judgment decisions of experts that could contain the element of vagueness and imperfection due to human biases, and it may lead to inaccuracy in the process of risk assessment in GSC. In this study, fuzzy logic is applied to conventional FMEA to overcome the issues in assigning RPNs. A plastic manufacturer GSC case exemplar of the proposed model is illustrated to present the authenticity of this method of risk assessment.

Findings

Results indicate that the failure modes, given as improper green operating procedure, i.e. process, operations, etc. (R6), and green issues while closing the loop of GSC (R14) hold the highest RPN and FRPN scores in classical as well as fuzzy FMEA analysis.

Originality/value

The present research work attempts to propose an evaluation framework for risk assessment in GSC. This paper explores both sustainable developments and risks related to efficient management of GSC initiatives in a plastic industry supply chain context. From a managerial perspective, suggestions are also provided with respect to each failure mode.

Citation

Mangla, S.K., Luthra, S. and Jakhar, S. (2018), "Benchmarking the risk assessment in green supply chain using fuzzy approach to FMEA: Insights from an Indian case study", Benchmarking: An International Journal, Vol. 25 No. 8, pp. 2660-2687. https://doi.org/10.1108/BIJ-04-2017-0074