In an era where sustainability is no longer just an option but a necessity, a groundbreaking study is reshaping the landscape of supply chain management in the construction industry. Hamed Ghamari, a researcher from the Department of Civil Engineering at the Islamic Azad University in Arak, Iran, has introduced a robust optimization framework aimed at enhancing the sustainability of construction material supply chains. This innovative approach, recently published in the journal ‘Sustainable Futures,’ addresses the pressing need for environmentally friendly practices while also considering the socio-economic impacts of construction activities.
Ghamari’s research focuses on two critical aspects: minimizing harmful environmental effects and reducing worker unemployment. “We are not just looking at the supply chain from a logistical perspective; we are integrating sustainable development criteria that can lead to a more responsible construction sector,” Ghamari stated. This dual focus not only aims to mitigate environmental damage but also seeks to create job opportunities, thus fostering a more holistic approach to sustainability.
One of the standout features of this framework is the introduction of horizontal transfers between downstream members of the supply chain. This innovative concept allows for the sharing of resources and materials, effectively reducing supply deficiencies and enhancing profitability for construction firms. Ghamari emphasizes, “By facilitating these horizontal transfers, we can create a more resilient supply chain that benefits all stakeholders involved.”
The study employs a two-step methodology, beginning with the ranking of suppliers based on sustainable development criteria through a multi-criteria decision-making process. The highest-ranked supplier is then integrated into a mathematical model designed to optimize the supply chain. Given the complexity of this optimization problem, which is classified as NP-hard, Ghamari utilized advanced solving techniques, including the CPLEX 12.1 solver for smaller models and three meta-heuristic algorithms—multi-objective ant-lion, gray wolf, and dragonfly—for larger-scale challenges.
The findings reveal that while both the ant-lion and gray wolf algorithms perform comparably on average, the gray wolf algorithm stands out for its efficiency in terms of solution time. “For real-time applications, the gray wolf algorithm offers a significant advantage, making it the preferred choice for addressing complex supply chain challenges,” Ghamari noted.
As the construction industry continues to grapple with sustainability issues, Ghamari’s research provides a valuable framework that could influence future developments in the field. By prioritizing sustainable practices, construction firms can not only improve their operational efficiency but also enhance their market competitiveness. This research not only contributes to academic discourse but also offers practical solutions for real-world applications, making it a pivotal study for industry stakeholders.
The implications of this research extend beyond theoretical frameworks; they present a pathway for construction companies to align their operations with global sustainability goals. As the industry shifts towards greener practices, Ghamari’s work could serve as a catalyst for change, promoting a construction ecosystem that is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.
For more information on Hamed Ghamari’s work, you can visit the Department of Civil Engineering, Islamic Azad University, where he is affiliated.