Network configuration of a bottled water closed-loop supply chain with green supplier selection

Abstract

A closed-loop supply chain is defined as the combination of both forward and reverse supply chains. However, it is in reverse supply chains that environmental issues are emphasized. In this research, a closed-loop supply chain network is designed and optimized to reduce the impact of bottled water production on the environment and maximize the total profit simultaneously. Unlike a general closed-loop supply chain network, in this network, the recycling centers are placed inside the manufacturers, in the same facility location, and the drop-off depots are parts of retailers in order to reduce environmental issues. In addition to designing and optimizing a bottled water closed-loop supply chain network, we also select the best suppliers based on some criteria, including cost, carbon footprint, on-time delivery, and quality. To achieve this aim, a multi-objective programming model and solution approaches are developed. The application of the proposed mathematical model is shown in Montreal, Canada, using real locations.