8,142 research outputs found

    A framework for closed-loop supply chains of reusable articles

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    Reuse practices contribute to the environmental and economical sustainability of production and distribution systems. Surprisingly, reuse closed-loop supply chains (CLSC) have not been widely researched for the moment. In this paper, we explore the scientific literature on reuse and we propose a framework for reusable articles. This conceptual structure includes a typology integrating under the reusable articles term different categories of articles (transportation items, packaging materials, tools) and addresses the management issues that arise in reuse CLSC. We ground our results in a set of case studies developed in real industrial settings, which have also been contrasted with cases available in existing literature.reverse logistics;case studies;closed-loop supply chains;returns managment

    Reverse logistics - a framework

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    In this paper we define and compare Reverse Logistics definitions. We start by giving an understanding framework of Reverse Logistics: the why-what-how. By this means, we put in context the driving forces for Reverse Logistics, a typology of return reasons, a classification of products, processes and actors. In addition we provide a decision framework for Reverse Logistics and we present it according to long, medium and short term decisions, i.e. strategic-tactic-operational decisions.Framework;Decision-making;Reverse logistics;Theory building

    Reverse logistics

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    This paper gives an overview of scientific literature that describes and discusses cases of reverse logistics activities in practice. Over sixty case studies are considered. Based on these studies we are able to indicate critical factors for the practice of reverse logistics. In addition we compare practice with theoretical models and point out research opportunities in the field

    A Framework for Reverse Logistics

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    Reverse Logistics has been stretching out worldwide, involving all the layers of supply chains in various industry sectors. While some actors in the chain have been forced to take products back, others have pro-actively done so, attracted by the value in used products One way or the other, Reverse Logistics has become a key competence in modern supply chains. In this paper, we present a content analysis of reverse logistics issues. To do so, we propose a content framework focusing on the following questions with respect to reverse logistics: why? what? how?; and, who?, i.e. driving forces and return reasons, what type of products are streaming back, how are they being recovered, and who is executing and managing the various operations. These four basic characteristics are interrelated and their combination determines to a large extent the type of issues arising from the resulting reverse logistics system.supply chain management;reverse logistics;content analysis;theory;framework

    Advanced Planning Concepts in the Closed-Loop Container Network of ARN

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    In this paper we discuss a real-life case study in the optimization of the logistics network for the collection of containers from end-of-life vehicle dismantlers in the Netherlands.Advanced planning concepts like dynamic assignment of dismantlers to logistic service providers are analyzed by a simulation model.In this model, we periodically solve a vehicle routing problem to gain insight in the long-term performance of the system.The vehicle routing problem considered is a multi depot pickup and delivery problem with alternative delivery locations.We solve this problem with a heuristic based on route generation and set partitioning.Reverse logistics;Closed-loop supply chain mmanagement;vehicle routing;set partitioning;distribution planning

    Supply chain challenges for sustainability: the case of waste textiles as raw materials

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    Purpose: This paper addresses the growing problem of textile waste in the rapidly developing cities of subSaharan Africa and examines, from a supply chain perspective, the potential for waste textile materials to be transformed into the raw materials for new consumer products. Research Approach: The paper reflects on the outcomes of a field trip to Dar es Salaam in which stakeholders in a hypothesised textile waste supply chain were interviewed and waste textile materials were analysed in order to determine their content and appropriateness for reuse. Findings from the field study have been compared with current literature on logistics and market creation, waste generation, management and recycling in sub-Saharan Africa. Findings and Originality: The findings show that a rudimentary system has been in place for many years to collect and recycle textiles in Dar es Salaam. However, at the same time as textile waste is projected to increase in the city, collection rates are falling. The chief reasons for the falling rates are failures in the ‘modernised mixture’ approach to waste collection employed by Dar es Salaam City Council and market failure for the collected materials. Alternative combinations of ‘modernised mixtures’, incorporating community-based organisations, are likely to increase textile yields from unplanned urban areas but previous high-profile failures in such systems within Dar es Salaam mean there is caution on both sides in entering into such a relationship. The more pressing problem is to identify appropriate end markets for the textile materials, since in a country where recycling is entirely market-driven, failure to do so will undermine any attempt to improve the collection system. Whilst many studies have considered general recycling practices in sub-Saharan Africa, there are few investigations into textile waste. Furthermore, those existing studies do not consider the importance of understanding fibre composition of the materials in order to determine the most appropriate end markets. Research Impact: The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on ‘bottom of the pyramid’ approaches to sustainable futures. Practical Impact: The work presented considers supply chain problems and offers approaches to tackling the increasing waste management issues of Dar es Salaam and proposes a mechanism for doing so which has the potential to provide income for the poorest sectors of the urban society

    Reverse Logistics Network Structures and Design

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    Logistics network design is commonly recognized as a strategic supply chain issue of prime importance. The location of production facilities, storage concepts, and transportation strategies are major determinants of supply chain performance. This chapter considers logistics network design for the particular case of closed-loop supply chains. We highlight key issues that companies are facing when deciding upon the logistics implementation of a product recovery initiative. In particular, we point out differences and analogies with logistics network design for traditional 'forward' supply chains. Moreover, we discuss the strategic fit between specific supply chain contexts and logistics network structures. Conclusions are supported by a quantitative analysis

    Closing Loops in Supply Chain Management: Designing Reverse Supply Chains for End-of-Life Vehicles.

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    In this thesis, the focus is on the design of reverse supply chains for end-of-life products, in particular end-of-life vehicles. For long-term success of end-of-life management, more economic stimuli are needed than is currently the case. Legislation as a single driving force is insufficient for companies to achieve closed loop supply chains. The key issue is to find eco-efficient solutions, i.e. design and operate an economically low cost network without violating applicable targets imposed by environmental legislation. In this thesis, a case study research methodology is adopted to develop design principles for network design and assess the consequences on the operations research models. Three case studies, which stem from the network of Auto Recycling Nederland, are described in detail.

    Reverse logistics - a framework

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    In this paper we define and compare Reverse Logistics definitions. We start by giving an understanding framework of Reverse Logistics: the why-what-how. By this means, we put in context the driving forces for Reverse Logistics, a typology of return reasons, a classification of products, processes and actors. In addition we provide a decision framework for Reverse Logistics and we present it according to long, medium and short term decisions, i.e. strategic-tactic-operational decisions

    Reverse logistics framework for PET bottles

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    Abstract: Reverse logistics (RL) is an engineering strategy used by manufacturing companies to develop environmental sustainability through recycling. The result of not having appropriate legislation and frameworks in Zambia, specific to RL for plastic bottles, huge volumes of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles are dumped on the Environment. Only 30% of the waste generated, in Zambia, is collected for disposal in dumpsites and the remaining 70% is not recovered. Of the 30% waste collected, there is no data to indicate the exact amount of PET bottles disposed. This paper focuses on analyzing RL activities performed by beverage manufacturing companies in conjunction with community involvement. Examining the regulations set by the regulatory bodies in monitoring waste management issues. Three separate questionnaires are issued, one for the beverage companies, one for the regulatory body and one for the municipality. Structured interviews and direct observations were also used. The results indicate that, RL of PET bottles is not practiced by the beverage companies. However the companies recognize the importance of recycling PET plastic bottles and have printed symbols of recycling on their bottles. Measures taken to protect the environment indicate regulations from the regulatory body are in place though not effectively enforced on PET plastic waste This paper focuses on analyzing the data collected via the three tier questionnaires and providing some insights into options to implement RL, within the Zambian constraints. A Container Deposit logistics Refund Legislation (CDRL) framework was developed and proposed for use in the recovery of PET bottles and any other recyclables
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