Application of fuzzy analytic network process for barrier evaluation in automotive parts remanufacturing towards cleaner production – a study in an Indian scenario

Abstract

Increasing numbers of end-of-life vehicles and a burgeoning concern for conservation of resources pressures the implementation of auto parts remanufacturing globally. But unlike in developed nations, developing countries encounter struggle with the implementation of auto parts remanufacturing due to hidden facts. Many researchers have explored such hidden facts in auto parts remanufacturing in developing nations and their emerging economies. However, there is a huge gap in the state-of-the-art remanufacturing practices in India, despite India's strong advancements in the automobile industry. In fact, India's automobile industry is rapidly approaching that of China's in recent years. Although some studies are available regarding remanufacturing implementation, current research has generally failed to offer a deep analysis of the factors and barriers that exist as hurdles to such implementation. Consequently, this paper attempts to investigate the essential barrier to auto parts remanufacturing in an Indian scenario, and we also address vital interrelationships and interdependencies. To achieve the aim of the study, a model framework is proposed and applied to an Indian case industry. The data obtained from the case industry is processed with two solution methodologies: namely, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and analytic network process (ANP). To avoid inaccuracies and vagueness in results, the data are manipulated under a fuzzy environment. This study reveals results which show that higher cost and lack of customer acceptance are the essential and most influential barriers in auto parts remanufacturing in an Indian scenario. This study contributes to society by assisting closed loop supply chain players to identify and eliminate the barriers to remanufacturing within the scope of the Indian sector. Finally, this paper provides a brief road map and insights into future research for remanufacturing specifically in an Indian context.