A literature review of green location routing problem: a comprehensive analysis of problems, objectives and methodologies

Abstract

ABSTRACT The logistics industry has developed rapidly in recent years, but it has emerged as one of the primary contributors to the greenhouse effect due to its high carbon emission levels. To address above challenge, scholars have undertaken the research of green location routing problem (GLRP) to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, to the best of our knowledge, there have not been many attempts to comprehensively sort out the current status and future opportunities of GLRP. In response, this study reviews 66 articles related to the GLRP published from 2017 to 2022 using descriptive and content analysis. To fully investigate related research, three questions are created to better address academic concerns: (a) publication status; (b) problem definitions, objective functions and solution methodologies; (c) future research opportunities. The findings suggest that scholars are becoming increasingly engaged, especially in the field of cold chain logistics. In addition, carbon emission and carbon policies are the research focus. Furthermore, the research opportunities are explored based on the discussed issues, including but not limited to the consideration of sustainability factors, especially in the social dimension. This study offers fresh perspectives to assist scholars better determine the research topics to advance academic progress.