A green supply chain assessment for construction projects in developing countries

Abstract

As a result of global warming, organizations have been improving their sustainability and environmental performance in terms of reducing their carbon emissions, minimizing waste generated from the industry, conserving natural resources, and reducing energy consumption. Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) is one of the applications in which organizations should implement essential environmental aspects. Although GSCM initiatives have been taken by some construction firms, some firms are not aware of the benefits of its practices to their companies and the society. This research paper presents a framework for identifying essential GSCM requirements for the construction industry through literature review and interviews with experts by pointing out the various drivers and barriers of GSCM in developing countries and providing recommendations for improvement. Two case studies are presented to evaluate the GSCM practices performed in two construction companies in Egypt, identifying the drivers and barriers as well as suggesting proposals that will improve the efficiency of the companies’ environmental performance. The findings of the study indicate that the drivers of implementing GSCM in Egypt include ISO 14001 certification and market competitiveness, while the main barriers include lack of regulations, lack of government support, and lack of society pressure. It also indicates that the implementation of GSCM in Egypt can be achieved through coordination between various parties such as governments, owners, manufacturers, consultants, contractors, society and NGOs and universities.