In the wake of COVID-19, the construction industry in developing economies faced unprecedented challenges, with supply chains buckling under the strain. A recent study published in *Cleaner Logistics and Supply Chain* (translated as “Cleaner Logistics and Supply Chain”) sheds light on these disruptions and offers a strategic framework to build more resilient and sustainable logistics systems. The research, led by Shumank Deep of the Institute of Management Studies Ghaziabad and the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, provides critical insights for policymakers and supply chain managers.
The study, which surveyed 360 construction professionals across India, identified stakeholder constraints as the primary cause of supply chain disruptions during the pandemic. “Stakeholder constraints were the main cause of disruption,” Deep explained, highlighting that issues such as coordination breakdowns and conflicting priorities significantly impacted operations. External pressures and resource constraints also played substantial roles, with factor loadings of 0.534 and 0.45, respectively. Operational and financial challenges, while less critical, still had a moderate effect, each with a factor loading of 0.28.
These findings underscore the need for a strategic framework that enhances both resilience and sustainability in construction logistics. Deep and his team propose a resource–stakeholder adaptability framework, which emphasizes improved stakeholder coordination, adaptive resource planning, and digital integration. “The goal is to create a system that can withstand future shocks while maintaining low-carbon operations,” Deep noted.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. Construction supply chains are integral to energy infrastructure projects, and disruptions can lead to delays, increased costs, and even project cancellations. By adopting the proposed framework, energy companies can mitigate these risks and ensure more stable and sustainable operations. “This research provides a roadmap for building more resilient supply chains, which is crucial for the energy sector as it navigates the complexities of a post-pandemic world,” Deep added.
The study not only offers practical strategies but also contributes to the broader literature on sustainable logistics. By exploring the causes of disruptions within a high-emission, resource-intensive sector, it provides valuable insights for other industries facing similar challenges. As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of COVID-19, this research offers a timely and relevant guide for enhancing supply chain resilience and sustainability.
In the end, the study serves as a call to action for policymakers and industry leaders to prioritize stakeholder coordination and adaptive planning. By doing so, they can build supply chains that are not only resilient but also aligned with sustainable development goals. As the construction and energy sectors continue to evolve, the insights from this research will be invaluable in shaping a more robust and sustainable future.