Proceedings of ICLT 2023
CHALLENGES OF CIRCULAR SUPPLY CHAINS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: THE EXAMPLE OF ZAMBIA
Mwanza B.G.; Magwenzi A.; Nanthakorn B.; Banomyong R.
University of Zambia, Graduate School of Business, Zambia; Thammasat University, Thailand, Thammasat Business School, Thailand; University of Zambia, Graduate School of Business, Zambia; Thammasat University, Thailand, Thammasat Business School, Thailand
International Conference on Logistics & Transport 2023, Helsinki, Finland, pp. 60-70
Download PDF | View interactive page
Abstract
Purpose: In a global approach to reduce the use of natural resources, international conventions, protocols, and agreements were introduced. In implementing these international approaches, developing countries were facing challenges such as war, instability, and economic weakness. As a result, introducing sustainable strategies, such as circular supply chains, remain relatively immature compared to more developed regions. This paper explores the challenges in the implementation of circular supply chains in developing countries and investigates these challenges using the example of Zambia, a developing African country. Design/methodology/approach: In the first phase, a literature review was conducted to evaluate, critique, and synthesize the challenges of circular supply chains in developing countries. The literature review covered research articles, reviews, and concept papers from the research databases Scopus, and Science Direct. Studies combining ‘circular supply chain,’ ‘sustainable supply chains,’ ‘supply chains and circular economy,’ and ‘circular supply chains and challenges of implementation’ and focussing on ‘developing countries’ were considered for review. In the second phase of this research, a comparative analysis was performed contrasting the findings in the implementation of circular supply chains in developing countries with today’s circular supply chain strategies in Zambia in order to reflect implementation challenges. Findings: This research maps challenges developing countries are facing in the implementation of circular supply chain strategies and demonstrates them using the example of Zambia. It provides recommendations to relevant groups of stakeholders both in the public and private sectors. Research limitations: Performing a literature review limits findings to secondary sources, potentially influencing the timeliness of data in this fast-changing research area. Practical implications: This research provides a basis for formulating policies a
Keywords
Circular supply chains; Sustainability; Remanufacturing; Recycling; Developing countries; Zambia
Citation
Mwanza B.G.; Magwenzi A.; Nanthakorn B.; Banomyong R. (2023). CHALLENGES OF CIRCULAR SUPPLY CHAINS IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: THE EXAMPLE OF ZAMBIA. Proceedings of the International Conference on Logistics & Transport (ICLT 2023), Helsinki, Finland, pp. 60-70.