Towards Sustainable Supply Chain Management: A MCDM Framework

Zenat Ahmed¹, Amal F. Abdel-Gawad², Mahmoud M. Ismail^*3

^1,2,3 Decision Support Department, Faculty of Computers and Informatics Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt

Emails: zenatahmed@fci.zu.edu.eg; amgawad2001@yahoo.com; mmsabe@zu.edu.eg

*Correspondence: mmsabe@zu.edu.eg

Abstract

This paper proposes a novel Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) framework for sustainable supply chain management. The framework addresses the challenges of evaluating and selecting suppliers based on sustainability criteria, optimizing logistics operations, and making sustainable decisions within the supply chain. Through a comprehensive case study, the effectiveness of the proposed framework is demonstrated. The results show that the framework provides a structured and systematic approach for evaluating supplier sustainability performance and supporting decision-making. The framework integrates established MCDM techniques, such as Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), while accommodating the unique requirements of supply chain sustainability. The findings highlight the advantages of the proposed framework, including its ability to handle uncertainties, incorporate multiple criteria, and facilitate informed decision-making for sustainable supply chain management.

Keywords: sustainable supply chain management; multi-criteria decision making; MCDM framework; supplier evaluation; decision support, sustainability performance; case study; supply chain sustainability; decision-making techniques; environmental responsibility