Environmental optimization and operational efficiency: Analysing the integration of life cycle assessment (LCA) into ERP systems in Moroccan companies

Abstract

During the 2000s, the synergy between Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems represented a major step forward in the integration of environmental sustainability into basic business processes. This study set out to investigate how Moroccan enterprises incorporate LCA into their ERP systems, aiming to understand the impact on environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. Through a methodical empirical study, involving a survey distributed to 220 companies across Morocco, the study garnered 95 qualified responses. These responses, from companies that own and operate ERP, were analysed using SPSS V25.0 for statistical and correlation analysis. The findings highlighted that the fusion of LCA into ERP systems fosters a more sustainable and efficient framework for business operations among Moroccan companies. Such integration not only secures a competitive advantage for businesses but also contributes to global sustainability goals. The analysis verified that Moroccan companies, by weaving LCA into their ERP systems, can refine their decision-making by weighing environmental alongside economic and operational considerations. This integrated approach underpins a holistic sustainability framework, helping companies align their activities with environmental targets more effectively. Moreover, the survey illuminated a pronounced correlation between the company size and the propensity for integrating LCA into ERP systems, with larger firms showing a more marked inclination towards this synergy compared to their smaller counterparts. Consequently, integrating LCA with ERP systems is revealed as a pivotal strategy for Moroccan businesses, equipping them with a mechanism to embed sustainability into their operational and strategic planning.