Issues and challenges in managing the reverse supply chain
Abstract
The main driving force behind reverse logistics initiatives is a combination of national and European legislation. However, there are also growing operational and economic concerns. This has led to an increased i nterest in the area of reverse logistics across many industry sectors. Particularly in the automotive sector, the concern for an environmentally friendly product design is a critical issue since this sector is facing the implementation of the “End-of-Life” directive. Reverse logistics is a significant part of the reverse supply chain. Although the first contributions to the field of reverse logistics were made in the early 1960’s, and there has been a recent resurgence in interest in the subject, the main contributors are still in disagreement of the scope and objectives of reverse logistics. Therefore, this paper reviews current reverse logistics literature while trying to find a consensus amongst main contributors’ views. The paper will conclude with a conceptual framework for further investigation in the area of reverse supply chain management.