Towards reducing electronic waste in a sustainable closed-loop supply chain

The increasing use of electronic goods worldwide has led to a significant increase in the amount of waste generated from their consumption, resulting in a primary environmental concern. This study aims to provide a systemic framework for reducing electronic waste by considering the benefits of a closed-loop sustainable supply chain. To achieve this goal, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify influential factors related to the green supply chain. Based on the identified factors in this section regarding electronic waste, a systematic framework was devised for the technology park companies' chain in Yazd. Accordingly, a systemic structure was formed utilizing a fuzzy cognitive mapping technique based on the current state. The statistical population of this study consisted of industry experts in e-waste in Iran. The initial criterion for identifying these individuals was having at least one international research publication or a minimum of ۱۰ years of work experience in this field. These individuals were selected using the snowball sampling method. After completing the snowball sampling process, ۷۲ experts were selected. Based on this framework, forward and backward scenarios were created to offer practical solutions for addressing the problem of electronic waste in Iran. The results of this study suggest that instead of discarding a significant portion of electronic waste, efforts should be focused on cost reduction through better recycling processes. By implementing a closed-loop sustainable supply chain, businesses can recover valuable resources from electronic waste, reduce their carbon footprint, and ultimately contribute to creating a more sustainable future.

Keywords:

Sustainable Supply Chain , Closed-loop supply chain , Electronic waste