The use of an optimisation model to design a green supply chain: A case study of the Thai rubber industry
The International Journal of Logistics Management
ISSN: 0957-4093
Article publication date: 8 August 2016
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to take the first step in solving environmental supply chain management issues. It proposes a green supply chain management (GSCM) model which would provide environmental benefits to the Thai rubber industry. To this end, a GSCM optimisation model was formulated, whereby the manufacturing processes of rubber products, along with their distribution and transportation, could be improved. The expected result is that total greenhouse gas emissions would be minimised and environmental performance maximised.
Design/methodology/approach
Linear programming was chosen as the mathematical programming for investigation into the problem of finding the association of quantity of rubber product flow between the supply chain entities (farmer, trader group, and factory) and the transportation mode and route, with a view to minimise total greenhouse gas emissions.
Findings
The results indicate that by using the proposed model, GHG emissions could be minimised to 1.08 tons of GHGs per ton of product.
Practical implications
A GSCM model developed in this research can be used as a decision support tool for Thai rubber policy makers. This would allow them to better manage the Thai rubber industry to achieve environmental benefit.
Originality/value
This research is among the first attempts to develop a GSCM model for the Thai rubber industry. It can contribute to providing a basis for a GSCM modelling framework, along with a formulation for research development in this area.
Keywords
Citation
Chanchaichujit, J., Saavedra-Rosas, J., Quaddus, M. and West, M. (2016), "The use of an optimisation model to design a green supply chain: A case study of the Thai rubber industry", The International Journal of Logistics Management, Vol. 27 No. 2, pp. 595-618. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLM-10-2013-0121
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited