Analysis of activities that make up reverse logistics processes: proposition of a conceptual framework

Abstract

Goal: The need to discuss reverse logistics processes with a detailed and analytical approach, aiming at improving the reverse channel efficiency is notorious in the literature. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze and describe in detail the activities that make up the reverse logistics processes and, in addition, to propose a conceptual framework for a better understanding and definition of RL processes. . Design / Methodology / Approach: This was achieved through a systematic review, which considered 3.517 papers, analyzing the RL concepts, definitions and objectives, as well as identifying its processes and activities. The activities were categorized as information (I-RL process) or materials (M-RL process) related. Results: This research provides an entire RL activities blueprint. This approach promotes greater transparency, allowing to identify stages most impacted on the reverse channels, besides standardizing logistical procedures and also allowing to insert control points for measuring performance. Limitations of the investigation: It is possible for a paper that focuses on one of the activities of the framework not to have been shown during the database if it doesn’t mention the keywords “reverse logistics”, “green logistics” and “sustainable logistics”. Practical implications: The concepts of reverse logistics activities presented in the framework can be implemented in reverse supply chains, serving as a basis for organizational strategies for managers involved with such processes. Originality / Value: The authors of this paper believe that the results achieved can greatly contribute to the expansion of debates in the RL area, as well as serve as a basis for managers involved with RL processes.

Modelling reverse e-logistics’ factors

“…Typically, RL refers to the activities carried out by the organisation to reduce waste, recycle, substitute, reuse, and dispose of hazardous materials. A broader view of RL includes all logistics activities involving waste management or waste disposal (Melo et al, 2022). Nowadays, there has been a growing interest in reverse logistics in both theory and practice due to ecological benefits, and this term refers to green logistics.…”

“…RL is a different approach that lessens the environmental harm caused by material recovery. Melo et al, 2022 RL stands for waste reduction, recycling, substitution, reuse, and disposal. These are all actions taken by the organization to lessen waste.…”

“…This is why several qualitative and quantitative models have been developed by different researchers to solve the issues that are associated with REL, such as inventory management, customer satisfaction, and client demands (Sri Yogi, 2015). Warehousing through proper inventory management, quality management, and effective infrastructure are indispensable factors to be considered when evaluating REL performance (Melo et al, 2022). The unsustainable utilisation of resources, ineffective economic performance, the nonexistence of professional managers, and inefficient IT systems are barriers to effective REL implementation (Münch et al, 2021).…”

“…The infrastructure is a part of diverse logistical activities, including REL, which cannot be completed without convenient infrastructure (Morgan, Tokman, Richey & Defee, 2018). RL systems provide infrastructure with a logistical value that can identify, move, and choose waste management through all the steps of the reverse channels that add value as well as restock the forward supply chains (Melo et al, 2022). Bad technology and infrastructure are considered barriers not only to REL development but to the entire firm as well (Govindan & Bouzon, 2018).…”

“…The reason is that the costs of centralised decisions are lower than decentralised (Batarfi, Jaber & Aljazzar, 2017). An essential element in the cost decrease and profit increase is the range of the company's flexibility (Melo et al, 2022). A company should be capable of increasing or decreasing production depending on demand forecasting methods aiming to ensure profit sustainability (Sri Yogi, 2015).…”