Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the implementation of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). In recent years, the focus on sustainability and responsible business practices has grown significantly, leading to a shift in the way organizations manage their supply chains. SMEs play a crucial role in the global economy, and their adoption of SSCM practices can have a significant impact on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. This study aims to explore the challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in implementing SSCM practices and to provide recommendations for successful adoption. The research begins with an introduction to the topic, providing background information on sustainability in supply chains and the importance of SMEs in the context of SSCM. The problem statement highlights the existing gaps in the literature regarding SSCM practices in SMEs and the need for further research in this area. The objectives of the study are to identify the key barriers to implementing SSCM practices in SMEs, to assess the benefits of adopting such practices, and to develop a framework for successful implementation. The methodology chapter outlines the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques used in this study. A mixed-methods approach is employed, combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in implementing SSCM practices. The findings chapter presents the results of the data analysis, highlighting the key barriers identified by SMEs, the benefits experienced through SSCM implementation, and the best practices for successful adoption. The discussion chapter provides a detailed analysis of the findings, comparing them to existing literature and offering practical recommendations for SMEs looking to implement SSCM practices. The conclusion summarizes the key findings of the study and emphasizes the importance of sustainability in supply chain management for SMEs. The implications of this research extend to policymakers, academics, and practitioners interested in promoting sustainable business practices in SMEs. Overall, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on SSCM practices in SMEs by providing empirical evidence and practical insights for successful implementation. By highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in this context, this study aims to inspire further research and support the adoption of sustainable practices in supply chains across industries.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Implementing Sustainable Supply Chain Management Practices in Small and Medium Enterprises" aims to investigate the adoption and implementation of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices within small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Sustainable supply chain management involves integrating environmental, social, and economic concerns into all aspects of the supply chain operations to achieve sustainable outcomes. This research is crucial as SMEs play a significant role in the global economy and have the potential to contribute to sustainable development goals through their supply chain practices. The research will begin with an introduction providing a background to the study, highlighting the importance of sustainability in supply chain management, and identifying the gap in literature regarding the adoption of SSCM practices in SMEs. The problem statement will outline the challenges faced by SMEs in implementing sustainable practices in their supply chains, such as resource constraints, lack of awareness, and limited access to information and technology. The objectives of the study will focus on exploring the current state of SSCM practices in SMEs, identifying barriers to implementation, evaluating the benefits of sustainable supply chain practices, and providing recommendations for enhancing sustainability in SME supply chains. The study will also address the limitations of the research, such as the focus on a specific region or industry, and the scope will define the boundaries within which the research will be conducted. The significance of the study lies in its potential to contribute to the body of knowledge on SSCM practices in SMEs, providing insights that can help SMEs improve their sustainability performance, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to environmental and social well-being. The structure of the thesis will be outlined to provide a roadmap of how the research will be organized and presented, including the chapters and their contents. The literature review will explore existing research on sustainable supply chain management, focusing on theories, frameworks, and best practices relevant to SMEs. It will highlight the key themes such as green procurement, carbon footprint reduction, social responsibility, and circular economy principles. The research methodology chapter will detail the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, data analysis procedures, and ethical considerations. It will include both qualitative and quantitative approaches to gather data from SMEs, supply chain partners, and industry experts. The discussion of findings chapter will present the results of the research, including the current state of SSCM practices in SMEs, challenges faced, success stories, and recommendations for improvement. The conclusions drawn from the findings will be summarized in the final chapter, highlighting the implications for theory and practice, as well as suggestions for future research directions. Overall, this research aims to shed light on the importance of implementing sustainable supply chain management practices in SMEs and provide practical insights for SME owners, managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders to enhance sustainability in supply chain operations.