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Green supply chain management practices: impact on performance

Kenneth W. Green Jr (Department of Management, Marketing, and Management Information Systems, Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, Arkansas, USA)
Pamela J. Zelbst (Department of Management and Marketing, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, USA)
Jeramy Meacham (Department of Management, Marketing, and Management Information Systems, Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, Arkansas, USA)
Vikram S. Bhadauria (Department of Management, Marketing, and Management Information Systems, Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, Arkansas, USA)

Supply Chain Management

ISSN: 1359-8546

Article publication date: 27 April 2012

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Abstract

Purpose

The aim is to contribute significantly to the first wave of empirical investigations related to the impact of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices on performance. The paper also aims to theorize and empirically assess a comprehensive GSCM practices and performance model. The model incorporates green supply chain practices that link manufacturers with supply chain partners (both suppliers and customers) to support environmental sustainability throughout the supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 159 manufacturing managers were analyzed using a structural equation modeling methodology. Manufacturing managers provide data reflecting the degree to which their organizations work with suppliers and customers to improve environmental sustainability of the supply chain.

Findings

Generally, the adoption of GSCM practices by manufacturing organizations leads to improved environmental performance and economic performance, which, in turn, positively impact operational performance. Operational performance enhances organizational performance.

Research limitations/implications

As a first wave empirical investigation of the impact of GSCM practices on performance, the study is by necessity exploratory.

Practical implications

Practitioners are provided with a framework for assessing the synergistic impact of GSCM practices on performance. Internal environmental management and green information systems are identified as necessary precursors to the implementation of green purchasing, cooperation with customers, eco‐design, and investment recovery.

Originality/value

A comprehensive GSCM practices performance model is proposed and empirically assessed. The results of this investigation support the proposition that GSCM practices are both environmentally necessary and good business. A structured two‐wave approach to the implementation of GSCM practices is recommended.

Keywords

Citation

Green, K.W., Zelbst, P.J., Meacham, J. and Bhadauria, V.S. (2012), "Green supply chain management practices: impact on performance", Supply Chain Management, Vol. 17 No. 3, pp. 290-305. https://doi.org/10.1108/13598541211227126

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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