Challenges in the implementation of reverse logistics in the automotive industry

Abstract: Due to growing environmental concerns, the need for recovery of returned vehicles has been receiving more attention than ever before. Yet, not many automobile manufacturers have a satisfactory reverse logistics system for recovering and re-using returned vehicles. The purpose of this article was to explore challenges associated with the implementation of green logistics for end-of-life vehicles in the automotive industry in South Africa and to provide insight into how these challenges can be overcome. This article reported findings of a qualitative study involving interviews with 12 participants from four automotive companies in South Africa. Purposive sampling techniques were used. Five themes emerged from the primary data collection, all of which were identified as key challenges in the implementation of green logistics in the automotive industry. From the findings, these challenges include lack of collaboration, knowledge sharing and standardised application of reverse logistics processes; lack of strict adherence to environmental policies; failure of consequence management for non-compliance; absence of clear policy and legislative direction; perception around the cost of implementing reverse logistics; and inadequacy of leadership. On the basis of the literature reviewed and empirical findings, conclusions were drawn and recommendations accordingly made