Identifying and prioritizing the challenges and obstacles of the green supply chain management in the construction industry using the fuzzy BWM method

Abstract

The construction supply chain network has been facing challenges in relation to reducing cost and delivery time, increasing the quality of the built assets, and reducing environmental pollution. These issues have caused contractors and project managers in this industry to note the concept of green construction supply chain management (GCSCM). This study examined the most important challenges and barriers to the implementation of GSCM in the construction industry. In this paper, the components and sub-components of GCSCM were identified using the literature review and opinions of the experts according to the supply chain management. The opinions of construction experts and project managers were collected through focus group meetings. The components were categorized into five main and supporting groups, with “Green Design”, “Green Procurement”, and “Green Production” as the main components and “Green Management” and “Green Information” as the supporting components. Subsequently, the sub-components, in regard to each component, were distinguished. Finally, the fuzzy best–worst method (BWM) was utilized to determine the importance weights of the identified components and sub-components through the opinions of five experts with practical relevant experience. The findings of the fuzzy BWM method show that “Green Design” is the most important component, followed by “Green Management” and “Green Implementation”. Additionally, “Lack of designers, contractors and planners” was ranked the first among the identified sub-components. This paper can assist construction managers, contractors, and policymakers with finding and overcoming the barriers and obstacles of implementing GCSCM.