Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The adoption of sustainable supply chain practices has become increasingly important for organizations, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), in response to global environmental challenges and societal expectations. This thesis explores the implementation of sustainable supply chain practices in SMEs, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and implications of integrating sustainability into their supply chain operations. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gather insights from SMEs across different industries. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. The literature review in Chapter 2 examines ten key areas related to sustainable supply chain practices, including green procurement, reverse logistics, carbon footprint reduction, and stakeholder engagement. This chapter synthesizes existing research findings and identifies gaps in the literature that this study aims to address. Chapter 3 details the research methodology employed, covering aspects such as research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The methodology section also discusses ethical considerations and limitations of the research approach. Chapter 4 presents a comprehensive discussion of the findings, highlighting the challenges faced by SMEs in implementing sustainable supply chain practices, the strategies and best practices adopted by leading organizations, and the impact of sustainability initiatives on business performance and stakeholder relationships. The conclusion in Chapter 5 summarizes the key findings of the study, discusses their implications for SMEs and the broader business community, and offers recommendations for future research and practice. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable supply chain management in SMEs, shedding light on the practical implications of adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices in supply chain operations. The findings of this study can inform policymakers, industry practitioners, and academics seeking to enhance the sustainability performance of SMEs and contribute to the achievement of broader environmental and social goals.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Implementing Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in Small and Medium Enterprises" aims to explore the adoption and implementation of sustainable supply chain practices within the context of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). With a growing emphasis on sustainability and corporate social responsibility, businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating sustainable practices into their supply chain operations. While larger corporations have made significant strides in this area, SMEs often face unique challenges and barriers when attempting to implement sustainable supply chain initiatives. This research project seeks to investigate the specific challenges faced by SMEs in implementing sustainable supply chain practices and identify strategies to overcome these obstacles. By examining the current state of sustainability within SME supply chains, the study aims to provide practical recommendations and guidelines for SMEs looking to enhance their sustainability efforts. The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods to gather comprehensive data on the topic. Through interviews, surveys, and case studies, the study will collect insights from SME owners, managers, and supply chain professionals to understand their perspectives on sustainable practices and the challenges they encounter. Key areas of focus will include the identification of barriers to implementing sustainable supply chain practices in SMEs, the assessment of current sustainability initiatives within SME supply chains, and the evaluation of the impact of sustainable practices on business performance and competitiveness. By analyzing the data collected, the research aims to develop a set of best practices and recommendations tailored specifically to the needs and constraints of SMEs. Overall, this research project seeks to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on sustainable supply chain management by shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in this area. By providing practical insights and recommendations, the study aims to empower SMEs to adopt and implement sustainable supply chain practices effectively, ultimately fostering environmental responsibility and long-term business success.