Supply Chain Optimization for Sustainable Raw Material Procurement in Specialty Chemical Manufacturing

Authors

  • Stuart Henderson Ulster University Business School, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Author
  • Lynsey Hollywood Ulster University Business School, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Author
  • Simone Angioloni Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Author
  • Paul Caskie Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Author

Keywords:

Supply Chain Optimization, Sustainable Procurement, Specialty Chemical Manufacturing, Supplier Selection, Green Logistics, Resource Efficiency

Abstract

The increasing emphasis on sustainability and resource efficiency has driven the need for optimized supply chain strategies in specialty chemical manufacturing industries. This study presents a comprehensive supply chain optimization framework for sustainable raw material procurement aimed at improving economic performance, environmental responsibility, and operational resilience. The proposed framework integrates multi-objective optimization techniques, supplier evaluation models, transportation planning, and inventory management strategies to support sustainable procurement decision-making. A detailed analytical model was developed to assess the impact of procurement cost, carbon emissions, supplier reliability, transportation efficiency, and material availability on overall supply chain performance. The study considers various operational constraints, including fluctuating market demand, lead time variability, and regulatory compliance requirements associated with chemical manufacturing processes. Optimization analysis demonstrated that strategic supplier selection combined with efficient logistics planning significantly reduces procurement costs and environmental impact while improving supply continuity and production stability. The framework also incorporates sustainability indicators such as energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste minimization to enhance environmentally responsible sourcing practices. Simulation results revealed improved supply chain flexibility, reduced transportation-related emissions, and enhanced resource utilization under optimized operational conditions.

Published

2024-05-24