Assessment of the effectiveness of green practices in the management of two supply chains

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce and test a model for numerical evaluation of the effectiveness of green practices implemented in two industrial supply chains (SCs). Two real case applications were made: footwear and metal-mechanics industry. Design/methodology/approach The research method is quali-quantitative modeling. By literature review, a model based on three constructs was proposed (green strategy, green innovation, and green operations), organized in 16 categorical indicators, prioritized with analytic hierarchy process. Three practitioners of each focal companies assessed the indicators fulfilling scales (very good to very bad). Findings The overall performance reached 51 and 57 percent, respectively of the maximum possible. The indicators that most jeopardized the performance were complexity management and communication, barriers to green supply chain management, green products, and green market (first case) and innovation in processes, and green market (second case). Research limitations/implications The model cannot be generalized or extended to other SCs. Further refinement and testing are required. Practical implications Managers and practitioners can improve the eco-efficiency of SC, focusing on the green practices that should be prioritized in greening strategies for the entire chain. Social implications Improvement of eco-efficiency is positively correlated with corporate social responsibility. Originality/value The model can produce a numerical overall value that represents the level or degree of implementation of green practices in the context of a SC management.