Modelling green and lean supply chains: An eco-efficiency perspective

• Published in: Resources, conservation and recycling conservation and recycling, 2017-05, Vol.120, p.75-87
• Main Authors: Carvalho, Helena, Govindan, Kannan, Azevedo, Susana G., Cruz-Machado, Virgílio
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Eco-efficiency; Green; Lean; Linear programming model; Supply chain
• ISSN: 0921-3449; 1879-0658
• DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2016.09.025

•We propose a model to help managers identify the best set of green and lean supply chain management practices to improve their eco-efficiency.•We suggest a mathematical model based on the eco-efficiency concept to overcome the trade-offs between lean and green practices.•We illustrate the model application with a case study from an automotive supply chain.•We conclude that in the supply chain context, not all companies can be absolutely lean or green.•We conclude that for the automaker to be more lean, 1st-tier suppliers must be less lean. This manuscript proposes a model to support decision making and to help managers identify the best set of green and lean supply chain management practices to improve their eco-efficiency. To attain this objective, a mathematical model based on eco-efficiency concepts is suggested to overcome the trade-offs between lean and green practices. To illustrate the model application, a case study from an automotive supply chain is presented. Some management practices that are instituted for green or lean benefits have opposite effects on the environmental and economic performance of companies. One of the main findings of our study is that not all companies belonging to the same supply chain can be absolutely lean or green. There should be compromises in the individual companies’ behaviour so the environmental and economic constraints of the supply chain are both satisfied. The proposed model represents a strategic framework to support the design of eco-efficient supply chains.