Sustainable Supply Chain Design by the P-Graph Framework and Integrated Metrics

Abstract

This article discusses the design of sustainable supply chains, especially their structure and assessment, by the P-graph framework and sustainability concepts. This is important because modern commerce, manufacturing, and delivery of services is mediated by supply chains. This makes supply chains critically important to sustainability and sustainable development. The properties of supply chains are often determined by their structure making use of the P-graph framework critical. The article further reviews integrated sustainability metrics, including the Sustainable Systems Hypothesis for assessing sustainability. These ideas are illustrated with the design and sustainability assessment of energy supply and consumer product supply chains. Lastly, a strategy for assessing and making multifaceted sustainability decisions is discussed.