Applying blockchain technology to ensure compliance with sustainability standards in the PPE multi-tier supply chain

Bill Wang, Zhiyu Lin, Michael Wang, Fangyi Wang, Peng Xiangli and Zhi Li

International Journal of Production Research, 2023, vol. 61, issue 14, 4934-4950

Abstract: Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, urgent surging demand for healthcare products such as personal protective equipment (PPE) has caused significant challenges for multi-tier supply chain management. Although a given firm may predominantly focus on an arms-length solution by targeting the first-tier supplier, the firm can still struggle with extended multi-tier suppliers it cannot choose which use unsustainable practices. One key goal is compliance across various dimensions with production, environmental and labour standards across the multi-tier supply chain, a goal that blockchain technology can be applied to manage. Based on a comprehensive literature review, this research develops a system architecture of blockchain-based multi-tier sustainable supply chain management in the PPE industry designed to identify and coordinate standards in production and social and environmental sustainability in multi-tier PPE supply chains. The architecture was validated by theoretical basis, expert opinions and technical solutions. We conclude with managerial implications for implementing blockchain technology to advance sustainable multi-tier supply chain practices.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1080/00207543.2022.2025944

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