Sustainable Supply Chain to Enhance the Environmental Performance in the Cleaning Detergents Manufacturing Industry: Case of Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Business organizations are embracing the sustainability dimension by aligning functional organizational processes to demonstrate environmental responsibility. The scope of this study was on sustainability supply chain that could enhance the extent of environmental performance among firms in the cleaning detergents manufacturing sector in Zimbabwe. The study was drawn from the realization that this sector is more prone to contributing negatively towards environmental security and sustainability. Key objectives were focused on the influence of green sourcing, reverse logistics, supplier collaboration, and resource efficiency on environmental performance. A quantitative research methodology was pursued and a sample size of 186 participants from the leading cleaning detergent manufacturing sector was selected. Data was gathered using a structured questionnaire. Key research results indicated that green sourcing had the greatest positive contribution towards environmental performance while research efficiency had the least effect. The effect of all predictor variables on the level of environmental performance was found to be statistically significant and positive, which demonstrates that the cleaning detergents manufacturing sector is aligning its supply chain processes in pursuance of the sustainability dimension. The key conclusions state that e-procurement is a sustainable sourcing strategy that incorporates order tracking technologies to improve their environmental performance. The adoption of environmentally friendly and biodegradable chemicals has improved the environmental performance of firms in the cleaning detergents manufacturing sector. The main recommendations indicate that the cleaning detergents manufacturing sector is realizing the competitive effects associated with promoting environmental security to demonstrate their regulatory compliance. The key policy prescriptions incorporate the promotion of biodegradable chemicals in the manufacturing of these cleaning detergents so that end users can be able to properly recycle, reuse, and reduce the adverse effects of using such detergents on the environment.