|
Circular Supply Chains and Reverse Logistics-Challenges, Solutions, Operational Insights, and Global Impacts on Sustainable Development: A Systematic Review
|
M. Salehi Sarbijan   |
| Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran |
|
|
Abstract: (789 Views) |
The transition from the unsustainable linear “take-make-dispose” model is crucial for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially given the environmental footprint of critical sectors like global healthcare. This systematic review, adhering to PRISMA guidelines and PICO framework, appraises challenges, solutions, and impacts of Circular Supply Chains (CSCs) and Reverse Logistics (RL) by synthesizing 26 high-quality articles published since 2010. Findings reveal pervasive, multidimensional barriers across technical (e.g., waste stream complexity, scalability), economic (e.g., high start-up costs, weak incentives), policy (e.g., legislative fragmentation, infrastructure deficits in developing nations), and socio-cultural dimensions (e.g., poor social acceptance). Conversely, the review confirms technological innovation as a central enabler, with quantitative evidence showing significant operational gains: RFID in healthcare reduced lost items daily and decreased infectious waste, while PLA recycling yielded a 59.87% production increase and 22.87% cost reduction. The analysis highlights an urgent need for research expansion beyond the current focus on Europe and Asia to address substantial knowledge gaps in Latin American, African, and Middle Eastern contexts. In conclusion, effective CSC implementation necessitates strategic priorities including robust digital infrastructure investment, policy coherence, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and targeted financial support for SMEs to overcome systemic impediments and fully realize the economic and environmental benefits critical for global sustainability.
|
|
| Keywords: Circular Supply Chains, Reverse Logistics, Circular Economy, Sustainable Development, Supply Chain Management, Closed-loop Systems. |
|
|
Full-Text [PDF 425 kb]
(156 Downloads)
|
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/03/27 | Accepted: 2025/06/16 | Published: 2025/07/1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Send email to the article author |
|
|
|
| Add your comments about this article |
|
|
|
