Sustain or perish: can environmental supply chain strategies predict sustainable performance of manufacturing firms? A third world nation's perspective

Abstract

PurposeDrawing on the natural resource-based view (NRBV) and dynamic capability perspectives, the current study investigates the extent to which environmental supply chain strategies (ESCSs) predict the dimensions of sustainable performance of manufacturing firms.Design/methodology/approachIn a cross-sectional survey, data were drawn from eight (8) listed manufacturing firms in Ghana: Aluworks Ltd, Unilever Ghana Plc, Fan Milk Limited, Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited, Cocoa Processing Company, Dannex Ayrton Starwin Plc, Benso Oil Palm Plantation Ltd and Samba Foods Ltd. The data from 396 respondents were analysed with partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach to test the research hypotheses.FindingsThe study revealed that environmental, social and economic sustainability performance reporting indicators were positively and significantly predicted by ESCSs of manufacturing firms in an emerging economy.Practical implicationsIn essence, the results provide broad support to the assertion that sustaining companies over several generations largely depends on understanding and implementing proactive green strategies or otherwise perish.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the few studies that investigate ESCSs and sustainability performance issues in emerging economies, like Ghana, where sustainability is on the verge of gaining momentum.

Application of Supply Chain Strategies to Improve the Performance of Syngas Networks

“…Overcoming challenges associated with linking supply chain strategies with energy networks presents opportunities for synergy and optimization through energy-efficient supply chain design, demand-side management, and renewable energy integration and offsetting [36]. Supply chain network design is critical in optimizing energy consumption and reducing environmental impacts [38]. Designing supply chain networks with energy efficiency in mind involves considerations such as facility location, transportation modes, packaging, and inventory management.…”

“…Supply chain managers can contribute to demandside management by aligning production schedules, transportation activities, and facility operations with energy demand patterns [41]. By strategically adjusting energy-intensive operations during off-peak hours or implementing load-shifting techniques, energy supply chains can support a more balanced and efficient use of energy resources [38]. Energy supply chains can contribute to expanding renewable energy generation by integrating onsite systems or participating in purchase agreements [43].…”

“…Energy supply chains can contribute to expanding renewable energy generation by integrating onsite systems or participating in purchase agreements [43]. By generating renewable energy or offsetting their energy consumption through renewable energy certificates, energy supply chains can support the growth of clean energy sources and reduce their carbon footprint [38]. Thus, collaborations between supply chain managers, renewable energy providers, and sustainability experts are crucial for identifying viable renewable energy integration opportunities and implementing strategies to improve performance [39].…”