Exploring Eco-innovation barriers to the sustainability transition in cold chain e-fulfilment systems

Abstract

The growing demand for cold chain e-fulfilment services has created challenges for implementing low-carbon practices due to the use of extensive energy and insulation materials required to maintain the desired service quality throughout the supply chain. This study applies the Fuzzy Best Worst Method with group decision-making capabilities to identify and prioritise eco-innovation barriers in the context of cold chain e-fulfilment. Through analysing expert opinions, it is found that (i) integration with legacy systems, (ii) high implementation costs, (iii) limited stakeholder engagement and communication, and (iv) limited awareness and education on eco-innovation are the most pressing eco-innovation barriers. Subsequently, insights and guidelines to integrate eco-innovation initiatives in cold chain e-commerce are suggested, highlighting the role of social eco-innovation. All in all, this research contributes to the next-generation sustainable development of cold chain e-fulfilment, aiming to balance environmental, social, and economic sustainability.